Abraham Lincoln was not that popular, but yet he won the Republican nomination and went on to become our 16th president. Here are several leadership qualities I felt contributed to Lincoln's victory in Chicago.
Heart: Lincoln had a quiet self confidence that allowed him to surround himself with people better known than he was. He also had the abililty to listen well to what others were feeling and thinking. Head: Lincoln knew he was not the most popular candidate. With this in mind he had to think of other strategies to win the Republican nomination. Bates, Steward, and Chase had all made enemies in the past. Lincoln had already put himself in situation to be everyone's second choice. His kind spirit gave him the ability to influence others; and to have them respond willingly. These are the same traits a principal must possess. Oh, let's not forget that his opponents had already made mistakes. Chase was overconfident. Thinking the nomination would just fall into his hands. A good leader must never become too complacent. Chase assumed he had won, rejected the offer of help from others. and stopped working for it. He didn't appoint a campaign manager and had little feel for what people were thinking. Bates was too conservative, and really not thinking with his heart.
"Team of Rivals" is a book written by Doris Kerns Goodwin. The main story centrals on the lives of President Abraham Lincoln and the three men who would eventually become a part of his cabinet. This Blog will start with a discussion on Chapter 8: Showdown in Chicago. So please use this blog to comment, debate, chat, and discuss
Well said, the difference between Lincoln and the other candidates was that Lincoln spent time being consistent and finding the needs of his supporters (preparing) while the others let previous ventures, arrangements and loyalties cage their success. He also personalized his platform by adding stories in which the public could relate.
ReplyDeleteIn my reading (Chapter 16) I found that Lincoln also added the three candidates that he defeated to his cabinet. Wow ---that is rare and/or NEVER today!!!
ReplyDeleteI found similiar themes in reading Chapter 13 "The Ball is Open". Lincoln needed support from people in unlikely places. He demonstrated pure brilliance as he was able to collaborate with others to bring about lasting change. A lesson for all of us.
ReplyDeleteBennie, did you know that Obama used the same strategy as Lincoln. Obama also used part of Lincoln's Speech in his Ignauguration Speech. (sse Obama on my home page) I don't know if Obama was trying to keep his friends close and keep his enemies closer. Hillary Clinton became a part of his cabinet(Secretary of State) He also included two Republicans. Following the example of Lincoln, Obama wanted his cabinet to consist of people who held opinions other than his own. I thought that was very strategic. We should do the same when forming commitees at school. If everyone is coming to the table with similar opinions there's no diversity or chance of progressing with new and innovative ideas. How do you guys feel aboout that?
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