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Their Lives, Their Times, Their Rivalry: An Epic Tale of Three American Presidents

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Published in War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein And Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives Their Times Their Rivalry

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A Photograph Of Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, And Rutherford B. Hayes, The Three Presidents Featured In The Book. War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein And Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives Their Times Their Rivalry

In the annals of American history, few rivalries have captured the imagination like that between Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, and Rutherford B. Hayes. These three extraordinary men, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, shaped the destiny of the nation during a tumultuous period of civil war and Reconstruction.

War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein and Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives, Their Times, Their Rivalry

by Lindy Woodhead

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3606 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	528 pages

In "Their Lives, Their Times, Their Rivalry," historian John F. Marszalek provides a meticulously researched and gripping account of these three titans. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, Marszalek paints a vivid portrait of their personal lives, political careers, and the complex relationships that defined their interactions.

Abraham Lincoln: The Rail Splitter

A Portrait Of Abraham Lincoln. War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein And Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives Their Times Their Rivalry

Abraham Lincoln, born in a log cabin in Kentucky, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most revered presidents in American history. A self-educated lawyer, Lincoln possessed a keen intellect and a deep understanding of the human condition. His leadership during the Civil War was instrumental in preserving the Union and abolishing slavery.

Lincoln's life was marked by both triumph and tragedy. He guided the nation through its darkest hour, but he also endured the loss of his beloved wife and two sons. Despite these personal trials, Lincoln remained resolute in his commitment to the Union and to the cause of human freedom.

Ulysses S. Grant: The Unlikely General

A Portrait Of Ulysses S. Grant. War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein And Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives Their Times Their Rivalry

Ulysses S. Grant, a West Point graduate, initially struggled to find his place in life. As a young man, he failed in several business ventures and fell into debt. However, with the outbreak of the Civil War, Grant's military talents became evident.

As commander of the Union Army, Grant proved to be a brilliant strategist and a tenacious fighter. His victories at Vicksburg and Chattanooga turned the tide of the war, and his relentless pursuit of Confederate General Robert E. Lee led to the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House.

After the war, Grant served as president from 1869 to 1877. During his presidency, he oversaw the Reconstruction of the South, but his administration was also plagued by corruption and scandal.

Rutherford B. Hayes: The Compromise Candidate

A Portrait Of Rutherford B. Hayes. War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein And Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives Their Times Their Rivalry

Rutherford B. Hayes, a Republican from Ohio, was a dark horse candidate in the presidential election of 1876. The election was one of the most controversial in American history, with allegations of fraud and voter suppression rife.

Hayes ultimately won the election after a compromise was reached that resulted in the withdrawal of federal troops from the South. As president, Hayes focused on restoring national unity and ending the lingering effects of the Civil War.

Hayes' presidency was also marked by economic turmoil and social unrest. He faced criticism for his handling of the Great Railroad Strike of 1877, but he also made progress on civil rights and education reform.

A Complex Rivalry

Despite their profound differences, Lincoln, Grant, and Hayes shared a common bond forged in the crucible of war. They each possessed a profound sense of duty and a deep commitment to the preservation of the Union.

However, their relationships were not without tension. Lincoln was wary of Grant's ambitions, and Grant resented Lincoln's interference in military affairs. Hayes, for his part, sought to distance himself from the legacy of Reconstruction, which had left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Americans.

In "Their Lives, Their Times, Their Rivalry," Marszalek explores the complex dynamics of these relationships, shedding light on the personal and political forces that shaped them.

A Lasting Legacy

The legacy of Lincoln, Grant, and Hayes continues to resonate today. Their actions and decisions had a profound impact on the course of American history, and their characters continue to inspire and challenge us.

"Their Lives, Their Times, Their Rivalry" is an essential read for anyone interested in American history, the Civil War, or the complexities of leadership. Marszalek's masterful storytelling and meticulous research bring to life the three extraordinary men who shaped the destiny of a nation.

War Paint: Madame Helena Rubinstein and Miss Elizabeth Arden: Their Lives, Their Times, Their Rivalry

by Lindy Woodhead

4.3 out of 5