The Making of the Last Best Hope of Earth: Abraham Lincoln and the Promise of America (1993)

An exciting look at the life and achievements of Abraham Lincoln. This fascinating story was filmed in New Salem Illinois where Lincoln lived as a young man; the Old State Capitol, the Lincoln Home and the Lincoln Time in Springfield Illinois and includes riches from three of the finest Lincoln collections, the Huntington Library, Illinois State Library and the private collection of Barry and Louise Taper with an intimate look at the more than 200 personal letters, documents and possessions of Lincoln and his family. Interviews with noted historians, art conservators and other museum professionals weave an intriguing story of the development of this major exhibition together with a unique look at the life of Abraham Lincoln. Abraham Lincoln held a vision of America as the Land of Opportunity. From humble beginnings he rose to lead our country through one of its greatest challenges, the Civl War. He strongly believed the union had to be preserved and that our democracy was "the last best hope of earth."