Goodwin examines the character and greatness of Abraham Lincoln through his relationship with a group of men who he beat out for the Republican nomination in 1860, and who eventually became his cabinet. It's fascinating to see how an unlettered backwoods lawyer became the defining political figure of the 20th century, and how Lincoln used empathy, honesty, and forgiveness to outmanuever his opponents. The "team of rivals" metaphor doesn't quite hold through, as the team only became effective once Lincoln established his moral century and dominance over the cabinet. They seemed to fight more with him than with each other. Compared to Battle Cry of Freedom this book is a little light on the history, focusing instead on these great men of the age and their ambitions. Still, a fascinating and important popular history.