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Abraham Lincoln's political strategy was to bring his former rivals into his cabinet from "summary" of Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Abraham Lincoln's decision to invite his former rivals to join his cabinet was a bold and unconventional move that paid off in numerous ways. By appointing men who had once opposed him, Lincoln demonstrated a willingness to put the country's best interests above personal grudges. This strategy not only helped to heal the divisions within the Republican Party but also brought a diversity of opinions and expertise to his administration. One of Lincoln's most notable appointments was that of William H. Seward as Secretary of State. Seward had been a leading contender for the Republican nomination and had criticized Lincoln during the campaign. By including Seward in his cabinet, Lincoln not only gained a seasoned politician with extensive foreign policy experience but also neutralized a potential rival. Another key figure in Lincoln's cabinet was Salmon P. Chase, who had also been a contender for the Republican nomination. Despite their differences, Lincoln recognized Chase's financial acumen and appointed him as Secretary of the Treasury. This move not only brought Chase's expertise to the administration but also helped to appease the radical wing of the Republican Party. Lincoln's decision to include Edward Bates as Attorney General further demonstrated his commitment to unity and inclusivity. Bates had been a staunch critic of Lincoln and had even considered running against him as a third-party candidate. However, Lincoln saw the value in Bates's legal expertise and included him in his cabinet, thereby further cementing his reputation as a unifier.- Lincoln's strategy of bringing his former rivals into his cabinet was a masterstroke that contributed to his success as a leader. By surrounding himself with talented individuals who represented a range of perspectives, Lincoln was able to navigate the challenges of the Civil War with wisdom and skill. This approach not only helped to forge a sense of unity within his administration but also laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and effective government.
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