rgetic
temperament, which led him into various indiscretions, soon made him a
popular hero. He was a sort of Andrew Jackson over again, and in 1904,
he was sent back to the presidency by an overwhelming majority. For a
time he was, indeed, the central figure of the republic. His energy was
remarkable; he had a hand in everything; but many people, after a time,
grew weary of so tumultuous and strenuous a life, and drew away from
him, while still more were estranged by the undignified and violent
controversies in which he became entangled. It is too soon, however, to
attempt to give a true estimate of him. Indeed, he is as yet only in
mid-career; and what his years to come will accomplish cannot be even
guessed.

Despite his controversies with the leaders of his party, he retained
sufficient power to dictate the nomination of his successor, William
Howard Taft, an experienced jurist and administrator, who is but just
entering upon his work as these lines are written, but to whom the
American people are looking hopefully for a wise and moderate
administration.

* * * * *

So stands the history of the rulers of the nation. As one looks back at
them, one perceives a certain rhythmical rise and fall of merit and
attainment, which may roughly be represented thus:

[Illustration]

Washington freed us from the power of England; Lincoln freed us from the
power of slavery; the third man in this great trio will be he who will
solve the vast economic problems which are the overshadowing issues of
our day. Will he be a Democrat or Republican--or of some new party yet
to be born? In any event, let us hope that Fate will not long withhold
him!

SUMMARY

LINCOLN, ABRAHAM. Born in Hardin County, Kentucky, February 12, 1809;
served in Black Hawk war, 1832; admitted to the bar, 1836; began
practice of law at Springfield, Illinois, 1837; Whig member Illinois
legislature, 1834-42; member of Congress, 1847-49; Republican candidate
for United States senator and held series of debates with Stephen A.
Douglas, 1858; elected President, 1860; inaugurated, March 4, 1861;
re-elected President, 1864; began second term, March 4, 1865; entered
Richmond with Federal army, April 4, 1865; shot by John Wilkes Booth, at
Ford's Theatre, Washington, April 14, 1865, and died the following day.

JOHNSON, ANDREW. Born at Raleigh, North Carolina, December 29, 1808;
member of Congress from Tennessee, 1843-53; gover