David Leroy to present 'Lincoln & the State of Idaho'

Former Idaho Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General David Leroy will present a public program titled “Lincoln & the State of Idaho” on Wednesday at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

The presentation will examine the leadership of Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and the creation of Idaho Territory in 1863, which Lincoln signed into law as part of his effort to preserve the Union and extend constitutional government westward, a press release said.

Leroy, a longtime Lincoln scholar and historian who has lectured and written extensively on Lincoln’s presidency and constitutional legacy, will discuss how Lincoln governed during a period of intense national division and how Idaho’s territorial founding fit within that historical context.

“Lincoln chose strength over comfort,” said Jack Riggs, former Idaho lieutenant governor and co-founder of North Idaho Republicans. “He surrounded himself with critics, governed through serious conflict and never lost sight of preserving the Union.

“Idaho’s creation during the Civil War is part of our shared civic heritage,” Riggs added. “Understanding Lincoln’s leadership in that moment helps all of us better understand our state’s history and foundation.”

The event is hosted by North Idaho Republicans and is free to the public. Doors open 5:30 p.m. RSVP is encouraged at bit.ly/LeroyTalk.