Abraham Lincoln was a dirt farmer’s son and Mary Todd was the daughter of Kentucky slave owners. Together, they ascended to the pinnacle of power at the most difficult time in the nation’s history.

Abraham Lincoln was a dirt farmer’s son determined to make something of himself. Mary Todd, the daughter of Kentucky slave owners, had unparalleled political ambition. He came to be known as the “great emancipator.” She came to be seen as a Confederate sympathizer. He would become more central to America’s image of itself than any other chief executive. She would die unnoticed and totally forgotten. Together, they ascended to the pinnacle of power at the most difficult time in the nation’s history.

David Grubin is the producer and director. Written by Geoffrey C. Ward and David Grubin. David Morse is the voice of Abraham Lincoln. Holly Hunter is the voice of Mary Todd Lincoln. David McCullough narrates.