From Lincoln to Trump

A History of the Republican Party

By: Thomas Cunningham, Tanner Read

Narrated by: Frank Franconeri

In this riveting and incisive non-fiction book, "From Lincoln to Trump: A History of the Republican Party" we journey through the political and ideological shifts that have defined the Grand Old Party from the turn of the century to the present day. As the United States underwent dramatic changes—culturally, economically, and globally—the Republican Party found itself at several crossroads that would determine its future direction and the nation's.

Starting with the inception of the Republican Party, the book deeply explores its foundational principles of anti-slavery, preservation of the Union, and commitment to a market economy. Abraham Lincoln’s presidency serves as a cornerstone, illuminating how the early party made substantial contributions to shaping modern America. Through keen analysis and historical context, the book probes the evolution of the party’s central tenets over time as the country itself underwent seismic shifts.

Journeying through the presidencies of Theodore Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, and Ronald Reagan, the book takes a look at how each leader imprinted his vision on the party, influencing its stance on governance, civil rights, and foreign policy. The shifts are examined critically, with an eye to both the internal dynamics and the societal changes that prompted them.

Moving into the 21st century, the book focuses on how the Republican Party navigated the complexities of a rapidly changing global stage and internal schisms. From George W. Bush’s war on terror to the soul-searching years of the Obama administration and ultimately to the populist wave that brought Donald Trump to power, each period is dissected to understand its impact on the party’s ideological makeup.

©2023 Thomas Cunningham (P)2024 Thomas Cunningham