Introduction

I read many books on Abraham Lincoln and his leadership style. Mr. Abraham Lincoln influenced a lot in my life especially during my studies. I applied the leadership styles of Lincoln in my office also.

Analysis of Abraham Lincoln leadership using transformational leadership theory

What is transformational leadership?

Transformational leadership is a process where a leader engages followers by raising their level of motivation through empowerment, learning, trust, and communication. The organization achieves goals beyond expectations. The leader and followers work collaboratively on a shared vision for the present and the future of the organization. The transformation of the organization improves and increases effectiveness, allowing for the organization to prosper and grow. Transformational leadership creates a positive organizational environment where stakeholders feel empowered and encouraged to take risks.

Lincoln and his leadership style

Upon Lincoln’s election, he made it plain that his vision was to preserve the Union. “I hold, that in contemplation of universal law, and of the Constitution, the Union of theses States is perpetual,” Lincoln stated in his First Inaugural Address in March 1861. He told Horace Greely in 1862 that he would save the Union even if it meant he would not free any slaves. In November 1863, as he made his famous Gettysburg Address, Lincoln discussed “a new birth of freedom.” Here the vision for America changed to one that met the ideals put forward in the Declaration of Independence, where all would achieve freedom and America would be the world’s example of equality for everyone.

Another example of leadership by Lincoln included his letter to Ulysses Grant after Vicksburg. Lincoln had criticized Grant’s tactics at Vicksburg and he sent him a letter apologizing for his criticism. Lincoln told him that “you were right and I was wrong.” Lincoln empowered Grant by showing self-deployment. Lincoln was not afraid to admit he was wrong and he wanted Grant to know he should not have criticized him. The letter led to Grant trusting and respecting Lincoln at a higher level, and eventually led to Grant being entrusted with the Army of the Potomac.

Transformational aspects of his leadership

I believe Lincoln was aware of the transformational components of his leadership. These characteristics were a part of him. A good example of this would be Lincoln’s willingness to meet daily with normal, everyday people who might come to ask for a

pardon for their son or who just wanted to sit down and talk to the President. He made time for others and always placed the needs of others before his own.

He established trust with his cabinet by allowing them to do their jobs without his influence. A good example of this would be Secretary of War Stanton, who had previously called Lincoln an “ape” at the McCormick Reaper Case in Cincinnati, Ohio. Lincoln knew he had excellent organizational skills and when his first Secretary of War, Simon Cameron, had to be replaced due to his involvement with corruption, Lincoln remembered Stanton. Stanton reorganized the War Department and became one of Lincoln’s greatest supporters. When Stanton’s son died, it was Lincoln who supported and comforted him in his time of need. Stanton said upon Lincoln’s death, “Now he belongs to the ages.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, the theme of leadership is highly relevant to any analysis of political manifestations, and in everyday life. Significant element s of the political system of leadership is of a constant and continuing interest to scientists and psychologists who express views on a variety of aspects of its modes. Formation of a particular type and style of political leadership is determined by a combination of factors such as the subjective nature (personal politics as a person) and a number of factors external to the individual. On these depends the success of the leader.

References

1. “Lincoln as a Leader” < http://lincolninstitute.wordpress.com/2011/06/19/lincoln-as-a-transformational-leader/>

2. http://www.mc.edu/rotc/files/4313/1471/9579/ MSL_202_L10b_Leadership_Analysis.pdf

3. http://gradworks.umi.com/35/56/3556425.html