"To say that Lincoln and Stephens shared the same views even in 1858 is simply wrong. Stephens was a slave owner, but Lincoln was not."

True, but which way did Lincoln vote concerning the laws which prohibited blacks from living in Illinois?

Mr. Wheeler (may I call you Samuel?) by today's standards both Stevens and Lincoln were racist. That is my only point. I have no problem saying my ancestors fought for a government where slavery was not only a legal institution but the foundation of the economy. I just don't understand why some people, again, yourself excluded, insist upon portraying Lincoln as a saint, perfect and blameless in his ways.

My personal favorite person among the famous to come out of that period of our history is Robert E. Lee. Not because of his military skill, but because of his personal conduct and the example he gave all Americans after the war. Yet I will tell you now Lee was a long way from perfect. Some may be offended by what I'm about to say but Lee was a sinner bound for hell except for the saving grace of Jesus Christ. He himself said as much. Why then is there a need to deify Lincoln?

I mean no disrespect to any Lincoln fans but those of us who see Lincoln differently are tired of the Lincoln fanatics who can't see that the man was flawed, just like all of us. I have even seen people make the comment that God himself favored the infidel Lincoln over the believer Lee. If that isn't making a religion of Lincoln I don't know what is. Not all idols are made of stone.