Sexuality of Abraham Lincoln

Illustration of Abraham Lincoln with his wife Mary Todd

The sexuality of Abraham Lincoln has been the topic of historical speculation and research. No such discussions have been documented during or shortly after Lincoln's lifetime; however, in the 19th century sexuality and same sex attraction were not often discussed. In recent decades (circa 1995),[1] some writers have discussed purported evidence that he may have been homosexual.

Mainstream historians generally hold that Lincoln was heterosexual,[2][3] noting that the historical context explains any of the supposed evidence.[4] Lincoln had romantic ties with women, and he had four children in an enduring marriage to a woman.[5] However, his intense bonds with men may or may not have had more meaning to them.

  1. ^ "Did Washington Hate Gays?". Newsweek. 15 October 1995.
  2. ^ Baker, Jean (2005). Gannett, Lewis (ed.). "Introduction". The Intimate World of Abraham Lincoln by C.A. Tripp. Simon and Schuster: 8. ISBN 978-1-4391-0404-0.
  3. ^ Media, Participant (2012). Lincoln: A President for the Ages. PublicAffairs. p. 22. ISBN 978-1-61039-264-8. Some historians have dismissed the claim, saying they misinterpreted such once-common practices as men sharing a bed "while traveling".
  4. ^ Gannett, Lewis (2016). "Straight Abe: Back Like a Bad Penny." The Gay & Lesbian Review Worldwide 23 (5): 17-20."
  5. ^ Steers Jr., Edward (2007). "The Gay Lincoln Myth". Lincoln Legends: Myths, Hoaxes, and Confabulations Associated with Our Greatest President. University Press of Kentucky. p. 147. ISBN 978-0-8131-7275-0.

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