THE YALE CLUB OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA
invites you to our
SPRING DINNER
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015
6:00 PM
Skyline Country Club
With
PROFESSOR STEVEN B. SMITH
The Alfred Cowles Professor of Political Science at Yale University
How to Read Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address
Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address is stunning.
Read it!
At last, we were able to convince the renowned Political Scientist, Dr. Steven Smith, to embark on a westward journey to come and speak to us.
Steven was the recipient of the Ralph Waldo Emerson Prize presented by Phi Beta Kappa but says that he is most proud of receiving the Les Hixson Prize for teaching excellence in the Social Sciences.
Our audience will be perfect for Dr. Smith.
I have rarely come across a group of people who are more “teachable” and open to new thought than we are.
Steven’s presentation will provide a close analysis of Lincoln’s greatest speech, his Second Inaugural Address.
Lincoln brought a deeply tragic understanding to the Second Inaugural Address on March 4, 1865, that makes it unique in his body of writing and unique among all presidential “Inaugurals.”
Frederick Douglas said, upon hearing the Address, “Mr. Lincoln, that was a sacred effort."
Because Lincoln’s religious beliefs remain some of the most controversial aspects of his legacy, special attention will be given to his use of religious language.
Dr. Smith will offer us a probing analysis of the deepest beliefs of our beloved 16th President.
Who was the God of Lincoln?
What did he believe was the role of God or providence in history?
Who was ultimately responsible for the war and what remains of individual responsibility?
Dr. Smith will distribute a copy of Lincoln’s speech (just one page) to ma