This biography of the colorful 19th century activist, statesman and politician who worked most of his life to make slavery illegal in the USA seems mostly to stay with facts and avoid speculation - as tempting as speculation can be when all of the facts are not known. The book was well-researched over a long period. In part, it emplasizes CM Clay's influence on Abraham Lincoln regarding his political stances on emancipation. I found it a very interesting and easy read - its only about 150 pages. Great for those who want substance not fluff but aren't looking for ponderous details.