American Experience Season 13 Episode 7 Abraham and Mary Lincoln: a House Divided (Part 1)

Abraham and Mary Lincoln: A House Divided (Part 1) is an episode of the historical documentary series American Experience, which explores the personal and political lives of President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary. The episode is the first part of a two-part series that highlights the difficulties the couple faced during their marriage, including differences in personality, grief, and political disagreements that often paralleled the growing divide between North and South in the United States leading up to the Civil War.

The episode begins by introducing the audience to the Lincoln family, including Abraham's rise to political power and Mary's privileged upbringing in Kentucky. Despite coming from different backgrounds, the couple had a strong connection and shared a love for their family and country. However, their differing temperaments and parenting styles caused tension in their relationship.

As Abraham's political career continued to flourish, the couple experienced numerous personal tragedies, including the death of two of their sons and Mary's struggle with mental illness. The documentary delves into Mary's struggles with grief and her attempts to cope with the loss of her children, which often manifested in outbursts and erratic behavior.

The episode also explores the political climate leading up to the Civil War, including Abraham's views on slavery and the country's growing division between North and South. The couple found themselves on opposite sides of the political spectrum, with Mary supporting her family's ties to the South and Abraham's views on slavery shifting over time.

Throughout the episode, the audience is given insight into the complex and often tumultuous relationship between Abraham and Mary Lincoln, which was magnified by the pressures of the presidency and the looming threat of war. The episode ends with the outbreak of the Civil War and Abraham's election to the presidency, setting the stage for the challenges the couple would face in the years to come.

Overall, Abraham and Mary Lincoln: A House Divided (Part 1) provides a comprehensive and engaging look into the personal and political lives of one of America's most iconic couples. The documentary offers a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of their relationship and the challenges they faced during a pivotal moment in American history.