American master director John Ford crafts a fictionalized account of ten years in the life of Abraham Lincoln before he became known to the world. Moving from a Kentucky cabin to Springfield, Illinois, to begin his law practice, he defends two men accused of murder in a political brawl. He also courts his future wife Mary Todd and agrees to go into politics.

Compassionate and assured, this indelible piece of Americana marks the beginning of Ford and Fonda's ascent to legendary status.