Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt and Rudyard Kipling

Retired attorney and presidential scholar Alan Manning joins host Rick Outzen to discuss his return to teaching American history at Pensacola Catholic High School after a successful legal career. Manning shares his unique journey from practicing law for 40 years to discovering his passion for education, and explains why he’s choosing the classroom over full retirement.In this engaging conversation, Manning discusses his first book about Abraham Lincoln as a father, which revealed the more human side of our 16th president and challenged common misconceptions about Lincoln’s relationship with his children. He also previews his upcoming work on Theodore Roosevelt, focusing on three generations of the Roosevelt family and the “romantic virtues” that defined them—duty, service, chivalry, and faith.Listeners will be fascinated by Manning’s research adventures, including his discovery of the original condolence letter from Rudyard Kipling to Theodore Roosevelt following the death of TR’s son Quentin in World War I, and his detective work uncovering the beautiful courtship letters between Roosevelt’s parents. The episode offers insights into both historical research methods and the rewards of following one’s passion, whether in the archives or the classroom.Perfect for history buffs, educators, and anyone interested in the human stories behind America’s most famous presidents.