Abraham Lincoln: Lover of Men? New Documentary Unveils Shocking Claims

A new documentary has sent ripples through the historical and social communities with its sensational claims about one of America’s most revered presidents. Titled “Lover of Men: The Untold Story of Abraham Lincoln,” the documentary suggests that Abraham Lincoln, often depicted as a paragon of virtue and the Great Emancipator, might have had romantic and sexual relationships with men. Directed by Shaun Peterson, the film promises to delve deep into Lincoln’s private life, offering never-before-seen photographs, letters, and insights from preeminent Lincoln scholars.

The Making of “Lover of Men”

The documentary’s official synopsis promises a comprehensive look into Lincoln’s alleged romantic relationships with men, backed by historical evidence and expert testimonies. The film features interviews with historians, scholars, and Lincoln experts who shed light on these controversial claims. Peterson asserts that the documentary includes love letters exchanged between Lincoln and his close male friend, Joshua Speed. Speed was one of Lincoln’s dearest friends, with whom he shared his early days of youth. One of the letters highlighted in the trailer reads, “Dear Speed, I shall be very lonesome without you, love Lincoln,” which adds weight to the documentary’s premise.

The Historical Context

The question of Abraham Lincoln’s sexuality is not entirely new. Scholars and historians have pondered this aspect of his life for decades. The discussion gained significant traction with the publication of Clarence Arthur Tripp’s book “The Intimate World of Abraham Lincoln” in 2005, which explored Lincoln’s relationships with men in depth. Additionally, a feature story in Solon Magazine in 1999 brought further attention to this topic. These works, along with the new documentary, challenge the traditional narratives surrounding Lincoln, urging a reevaluation of his personal life in light of new evidence and perspectives.

Evidence and Claims

“Lover of Men” purports to include historical pieces of evidence that support its claims about Lincoln’s sexuality. These include letters, photographs, and personal accounts that paint a different picture of the man who led the United States through its Civil War. The film aims to provide a broader understanding of human sexual fluidity, contrasting the sexual norms of the nineteenth century with contemporary views. It seeks to challenge audiences to reconsider why society often holds such a limited view of human sexuality and to recognize the profound differences between past and present sexual mores.

One of the documentary’s most compelling arguments is based on the numerous letters Lincoln wrote to his male companions. These letters, described as deeply affectionate and intimate, suggest a level of emotional and possibly physical connection that goes beyond mere friendship. The documentary does not shy away from these letters, instead using them as a central piece of evidence to support its narrative.

Public and Scholarly Reactions

The release of the documentary’s trailer has already stirred significant reactions online. Public figures, historians, and social media users have all weighed in on the topic. Tesla owner Elon Musk commented on X, formerly known as Twitter, with his characteristic irreverence, “Everyone already knows he was a gay vampire!” This quip references the 2012 film “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,” which fictionalized Lincoln’s life in a fantastical way.

Many users expressed skepticism and outrage at the documentary’s claims. One user commented, “Okay, this is a stretch. The man had a wife and kids. Let the man rest in peace and keep his name out of your mouth!” This sentiment reflects a common view that historical figures, especially revered ones like Lincoln, should not be subjected to what some see as revisionist histories.

However, not all reactions were negative. Some users found the documentary’s premise intriguing, noting that discussions about Lincoln’s sexuality are not new. One user wrote, “Interesting, and this isn’t new information, it’s been discussed for many years. Curious to see who you interviewed.” This highlights a more open-minded perspective that recognizes the complexities of historical figures and the evolving understanding of their personal lives.

Exploring Sexual Identity and Historical Intolerance

“Lover of Men” aims to do more than just reveal a different side of Abraham Lincoln; it seeks to examine broader themes of sexual identity and societal intolerance. The documentary argues that understanding Lincoln’s relationships with men provides a lens into the history of human sexual fluidity and the changing perceptions of sexuality over time.

By presenting these claims, the documentary challenges audiences to reflect on why society holds rigid views on sexuality and gender roles. It encourages a deeper examination of American intolerance, both in the past and present. The film’s narrative suggests that recognizing and accepting the fluidity of sexual identity can lead to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of human relationships.