Watch Lincoln's Dilemma

Lincoln's Dilemma is a compelling new docuseries from Apple TV+ that aired in 2022. Straddling the line between historical analysis and dramatic reenactment, the series takes a uniquely nuanced look into the life and decisions of America's 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. However, this is not simply another recounting of the Civil War’s violent conflicts or Lincoln’s tragic assassination. Instead, Lincoln's Dilemma delves deep into the complex internal struggles of a man burdened with a nation divided, wrestling with issues of morality, justice, and human rights. The docuseries seeks to unravel Lincoln, the man - the President, the father, the husband, and most critically, the emancipator.

The six-part series focuses on a significant theme: Lincoln's views on slavery and the role it played in shaping his presidency, which got deeply entangled with the fabric of Civil War. It sheds light on Lincoln's journey from his early political career in Illinois, his breathtaking ascension to the presidency, his handling of the Civil War crisis, and his historically significant Emancipation Proclamation. Utilizing archive materials, expert interviews, and emotional narratives, Lincoln's Dilemma pieces together the trials faced by the president, giving viewers an intimate view of Lincoln in the harsh light of a country on the brink of disintegration.

Notably, the series is based on newly discovered documents and interviews with a host of Lincoln biographers, Civil War scholars, and accomplished historians. Utilizing these materials, viewers gain insight into Lincoln's evolving stance on the institution of slavery. The show brings forth Lincoln's initial ambivalence, slow grappling with the moral implications of slavery, and his eventual transformation into a fervent abolitionist, resulting in one of America's most ground-breaking political legislations.

However, the series is not just about politics; it takes a dive into Lincoln's personal life as well, focusing on the trials and tribulations faced by the man himself. It covers aspects like Lincoln's complex relationship with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and the profound impact of their personal losses on his presidency. It also provides an intricate portrait of Lincoln the father, depicting his tender relationships with his children, demonstrating how all these aspects had far-reaching influences on his political decisions.

The series also delves into the arduous process Lincoln underwent to draft the Emancipation Proclamation amidst the chaotic backdrop of the Civil War. It captures the agonizing wait that African Americans had to endure, hoping for their freedom while bound by the brutal chains of slavery. This exploration provides a comprehensive analysis of the political landscape during the Civil War era, one centered around human rights crises and the quest for racial justice.

What sets Lincoln's Dilemma apart is the effective use of dramatic reenactments that provide a visually captivating depiction of Lincoln’s interactions with various individuals. These dramatizations humanize the experiences, giving the audience an engaging view of the events. The solid narrative structure, accentuated by excellent cinematic techniques and enriched by compelling background scores, offers viewers an engulfing experience of this tumultuous historical period.

Lincoln's Dilemma also gives voice to the African American experience, offering a perspective that has previously been marginalized or overlooked in historical discussions. This inclusion allows the audience a richer understanding of this critical period in American history – highlighting the experiences of those directly affected by Lincoln’s decisions, the slaves, and African Americans who relentlessly fought for their right to freedom.

Moreover, the series goes beyond the man and sits firmly in the realm of the social and political structures of the time. It allows us to explore the critical questions as to why one nation became two, the complexities of the definition of freedom, and the nation's promise of equality that is still being grappled with today. Therefore, it does not merely document Lincoln's life and events, but it gives a critical understanding of America's historical fabric.

In essence, Lincoln's Dilemma is about more than just the 16th President of the United States. It is a story of courage and perseverance in facing the moral challenges of a divided nation. It provides a crystalline gaze into the struggles and triumphs of one of the most iconic figures in American history, leaving the viewers with a deep understanding and appreciation for the complexities and challenges of leadership in times of crisis. It is a must-watch for those interested in American history, slavery, Civil War, and the journeys of men, like Lincoln, who dared to effect monumental change in the face of adversity.

Lincoln's Dilemma is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on February 18, 2022.