In the upcoming documentary Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln, director Shaun Peterson delves into the long-standing speculation surrounding Lincoln’s sexuality. The film examines Lincoln’s intimate relationships with four men, including his close friend Joshua Speed. However, the film isn’t just about sexual orientation but explores homosocial bonds in the 19th century, when love between men was viewed differently than today. Peterson emphasizes, “We’re not trying to make the case that Lincoln was an outlier. We’re not even making the case that Lincoln was gay. We’re making the case that Lincoln participated in behavior that was extraordinarily common at the time.” Drawing from years of Lincoln scholarship, the documentary portrays Lincoln's emotional connections as a significant part of his life, supported by letters and expert opinions. One historian, John Stauffer, noted, “Very few scholars, especially Lincoln scholars, accept Lincoln as gay, today. Why is that?... If he was gay, it would explode their understanding of him, because he could not have then been the statesman that he was.” The film features dramatized re-creations and commentary from leading historians who point out the complexities of interpreting historical figures' private lives. Through this exploration of Lincoln’s personal relationships, Lover of Men encourages viewers to reconsider the ways historical norms have shaped our understanding of iconic figures. At its core, the film aims to ignite conversation about love and intimacy beyond the constraints of modern labels. #Queer Up Politics