Unveiling the hidden side of Abraham Lincoln: A new documentary explores his sexuality
A fresh perspective on a historical icon
In the groundbreaking documentary “Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln”, director Shaun Peterson delves into a lesser-known aspect of the 16th President of the United States. This 102-minute film, featuring interviews with 20 Lincoln scholars and historians, presents compelling evidence that Abraham Lincoln may have had intimate relationships with men. The documentary showcases never-before-seen photographs and letters, suggesting that Lincoln’s personal life was far more complex than previously understood.
The evidence and key relationships
The film meticulously examines Lincoln’s relationships with several men, highlighting four significant figures. Among them is Joshua Speed, with whom Lincoln shared a bed for four years. This relationship, widely documented, serves as a focal point in the documentary’s argument. The film also explores the broader context of human sexual fluidity and the stark differences between 19th-century and contemporary sexual norms.
A partnership for awareness
“Lover of Men” is set to make its theatrical debut on Friday, in collaboration with Special Occasion Studios and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). This partnership aims to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of American history and promote a broader understanding of sexual diversity.
The journey of discovery
Shaun Peterson’s inspiration
Director Shaun Peterson’s journey began with a fascination sparked by an essay on Lincoln’s sexuality. This curiosity led him down a rabbit hole of research, culminating in the creation of this documentary. Despite initial skepticism from various quarters, Peterson’s determination to uncover the truth about Lincoln’s personal life drove him to produce a sizzle reel featuring interviews with prominent scholars.
Rob Rosenheck’s involvement
Producer Rob Rosenheck joined the project after being captivated by Peterson’s revelations about Lincoln. Recognizing the story’s potential to challenge conventional narratives, Rosenheck was eager to bring this untold history to the screen.
Challenging established narratives
The absence in mainstream portrayals
Despite the prominence of Lincoln in American history, mainstream portrayals like Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” and Ken Burns’ “Civil War” series have largely ignored the possibility of Lincoln’s queerness. According to the documentary, this omission reflects a broader reluctance to challenge the heteronormative image of Lincoln as a symbol of America.
The broader implications
The documentary argues that the idea of a queer Abraham Lincoln threatens those who fear “the other.” This fear, rooted in misinformation, is a central struggle in contemporary society. By presenting Lincoln’s sexuality as an entry point to a larger conversation about identity and acceptance, the film seeks to foster a more inclusive understanding of American history.
Historical context and societal norms
19th-century acceptance
One of the documentary’s key points is that 19th-century society was more accepting of same-sex relationships than contemporary audiences might assume. The film emphasizes that terms like “queer,” “homosexual,” and “gay” did not exist at the time. Instead, these were simply behaviors that many men, including Lincoln, acted upon.
Contemporary relevance
By framing Lincoln’s relationships in a modern context, the documentary aims to make this historical narrative more accessible and relatable. It challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of historical figures and the fluidity of human sexuality.
Audience reactions and historical significance
Anticipated responses
Producer Rob Rosenheck acknowledges that the documentary may provoke strong reactions. However, he emphasizes that the film’s primary goal is to present historical evidence and foster a deeper understanding of American history. The involvement of 20 prominent scholars from prestigious universities lends credibility to the documentary’s conclusions.
A suppressed history
Ultimately, “Lover of Men” seeks to uncover a suppressed and hidden aspect of American history. The documentary invites audiences to grapple with the idea that one of the nation’s most revered leaders may have had intimate relationships with men. By doing so, it challenges viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the broader implications of historical narratives.
Watch the trailer
For those interested in exploring this fascinating documentary further, you can watch the trailer for Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of the documentary “Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln,” offering readers insights into its content, context, and significance. By incorporating personal reflections and in-depth analysis, the article seeks to enrich the reader’s understanding of this provocative and thought-provoking film.