PDF Summary:Lincoln & Churchill, by Lewis E. Lehrman

Despite their vastly different backgrounds and personalities, Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill rose to lead their countries through existential crises demanding peerless resolve and oratorical skill. In Lincoln & Churchill, author Lewis E. Lehrman unveils the distinct paths these oft-contrasting figures took to the highest echelons of leadership, then examines the leadership styles and critical decisions they employed to steer their nations to victory.

Lincoln and Churchill both endured and overcame major adversity—whether the bloodiest conflict fought on American soil or the bleakest days of World War II—to ultimately secure historic triumphs. Lehrman charts how they galvanized nations through turbulent times by harnessing diverse strengths, from Lincoln's skilled navigation of a fractious cabinet and Congress to Churchill's soaring rhetoric inspiring Britain at its darkest hour.

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The writer portrays Lincoln as a political strategist par excellence, skillfully employing a range of overt and subtle communication methods to navigate the treacherous political landscape during the Civil War era. Lincoln was acutely aware of the necessity to secure public backing for the Union's victory, and therefore crafted his public remarks with great care to provide solace and boost the spirits of the populace. He skillfully crafted correspondence for public dissemination, successfully securing support for his political tactics and articulately presenting his plan for the country's reunification.

Lincoln's leadership style, characterized by forbearance and occasionally paternal guidance, is clearly reflected through the personal letters he wrote to his military commanders. He chose to advise and guide instead of issuing direct orders, recognizing the complexities of war and the significance of permitting military leaders to make immediate tactical choices. He demonstrated a steadfast and observant demeanor when necessary, with his correspondence frequently revealing a sympathetic disposition coupled with a deep understanding of human experiences. He cultivated a strong sense of loyalty among his team members.

Practical Tips

• Start a reflection journal to track daily interactions that involve disagreement or conflict. Note down the situation, the different viewpoints, your response, and the outcome. Reviewing these entries weekly can help you identify patterns in your conflict management approach and areas for improvement, such as the need for more patience or better communication techniques.
• You can foster your own influential connections by starting a niche networking group focused on a specific interest or industry you're passionate about. Use social media platforms to gather like-minded individuals and organize regular virtual meet-ups to discuss relevant topics, share resources, and support each other's goals. This can lead to forming strong bonds with potential key influencers within your chosen field.
• Create a personal blog or social media page dedicated to sharing stories and examples of unity in action within your community or historical figures who have successfully united people. Use these platforms to engage with your audience by asking for their stories of unity and collaboration, fostering a digital space that celebrates and encourages coming together for a common cause. For example, you could share a story about a local sports team that brings together players from diverse backgrounds and the positive impact it has on community relations.
• Craft your messages with a specific audience in mind by identifying their values and concerns before you speak or write to them. Before drafting an email, a social media post, or a presentation, take a moment to research or reflect on the interests and beliefs of your intended audience. For example, if you're addressing colleagues in a sustainability-focused company, emphasize how your ideas align with environmental values.
• Use social media to test public reactions to your ideas before fully committing to them. Share a concise, well-thought-out post on a platform like LinkedIn or Twitter about a concept or opinion you have. Monitor the feedback and engagement it receives. This can give you a sense of how your ideas might be received on a larger scale and allow you to refine your message accordingly.
• Develop a habit of writing "wisdom letters" to friends or colleagues facing challenges, offering advice only after careful reflection. This approach channels the aspect of paternal guidance without being overbearing. For instance, if a colleague is struggling with a project, instead of giving immediate advice, take the time to write a thoughtful letter outlining potential solutions and encouragement, which they can refer to when needed.
• Encourage initiative by setting clear objectives and allowing your team to determine the best approach to achieve them. Clearly communicate the end goal of a project, but give your team the freedom to plan how to reach that goal. This could mean providing the project requirements and deadlines, but letting the team members decide the workflow, roles, and methods they will use to complete the project.
• Develop your steadfast demeanor by volunteering for a role that requires consistent commitment, like mentoring a student or assisting at a local charity. This will put you in situations where you must maintain a calm and reliable presence, much like Lincoln did, even when challenges arise. As you navigate these roles, you'll learn to embody that steadfastness in your own life.
• Start a "Sympathy Journal" to document your daily interactions, focusing on understanding the feelings and experiences of others. Each day, write down at least one interaction where you tried to understand someone else's perspective. Reflect on their emotions and your response. This practice will help you develop a habit of empathy, similar to how a historical figure might have done through correspondence.
• Implement a "Skill-Share Session" once a month where team members teach each other something new, whether it's work-related or a personal hobby. This not only promotes learning but also shows that you value the diverse talents within the team, which can strengthen loyalty and camaraderie.

Churchill, in his role at the helm of a unified government, made effective use of a comprehensive communication system, issuing an unyielding stream of 'Action This Day' directives, utilizing the BBC to deliver stirring speeches, and orchestrating a global campaign to strengthen the unity and resolve of the Allied forces.

Churchill's unique style of communication during wartime, which mirrored his exceptional character, often necessitated prompt decisions, adeptly leveraged written orders for leadership and administration, and made use of oratory to shape global strategies and public opinion. Churchill meticulously developed a sophisticated network to oversee and improve communications, persistently propelling the war initiative with his ceaseless directives.

The writer highlights how Churchill was instrumental in rallying the citizens of Britain by utilizing his broadcasts on BBC radio. He conveyed the necessity to fight Nazism in his speeches broadcasted worldwide, thereby strengthening the determination of his countrymen and drawing allies with his unwavering conviction in assured victory. He was instrumental in nurturing the alliance that developed between the United States and Great Britain. Churchill's steadfast dedication to both military and diplomatic endeavors shaped the Allied strategy and global perception of the war, persisting through its most difficult periods.

Context

• The British government, under Churchill's leadership, exercised control over wartime communications to prevent the spread of sensitive information and maintain public confidence in the war effort.
• The phrase 'Action This Day' has since become synonymous with Churchill's leadership and is often cited as an example of his dynamic and forceful approach to governance during a crisis.
• His speeches served as a form of psychological warfare, intended to demoralize enemy forces and embolden Allied troops and citizens by projecting confidence and resilience.
• The campaign included the establishment of joint military commands and operations, such as the Combined Chiefs of Staff, to ensure effective coordination and planning among the Allied military forces.
• His communication style was adaptable, allowing him to shift tones and approaches depending on the audience and the situation, whether addressing Parliament, the public, or international allies.
• The dynamic nature of wartime strategies required leaders to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, such as shifts in enemy tactics or unexpected developments on the battlefield.
• Written orders helped maintain a structured chain of command, ensuring that instructions were passed down accurately through various levels of military and government hierarchy, minimizing misunderstandings.
• His speeches often addressed the broader themes of freedom, democracy, and resistance against tyranny, which resonated with global audiences and helped to frame the war as a moral struggle.
• The system was designed to be resilient and adaptable, allowing for rapid response and decision-making during crises, which was essential for maintaining momentum and addressing challenges as they arose.
• His directives often bypassed traditional bureaucratic channels, allowing for faster decision-making and implementation, which was vital in the rapidly changing context of World War II.

The administration of political entities, along with the command of military maneuvers, and pivotal choices during the defining moments of the American Civil War and World War II.

This section examines specific years characterized by conflict, analyzing how each leader formed political alliances, guided their military, and determined critical strategies during periods of intense challenges and major strategic shifts. Lehrman examines how their approaches to leadership adapted to evolving political landscapes, shifting alliances, and unexpected challenges.

The leadership faced significant challenges in the turbulent periods of 1862 and 1942.

The difficulties ranging from Shiloh to Singapore in 1862 and 1942 revealed deficiencies in military command, challenged the fortitude of both Lincoln and Churchill, and compelled these leaders to alter their tactics in preparation for an extended and expensive conflict.

Lehrman observes that during the critical early stages of their nations' conflicts, which were essential for maintaining national cohesion, they faced a multitude of crises and encountered significant political hurdles as well as setbacks on the battlefield. In 1862, Lincoln faced numerous challenges, endured personal sorrow, and contended with growing public discontent as he remained steadfast in his efforts to maintain the unity of the Union. The President shouldered numerous difficulties, such as the profound sorrow stemming from his son Willie's passing, challenges faced by the Republican party during the midterm elections, the mismanagement of military campaigns on the Peninsula, and the significant losses of troops at Fredericksburg.

The early stages of World War II, especially during 1942, posed considerable challenges to Churchill. The British armed forces encountered substantial difficulties due to their insufficient equipment, underscored by the surrender of key positions such as Singapore and Tobruk, along with difficulties experienced across different parts of Asia. During the entire period of strife, Churchill's guidance was tested by rebellions within parliament, which demanded the utmost of his political acumen. In this context, the author portrays both individuals as exemplifying steadfast determination and robust resolve, coupled with an unyielding dedication to withstand hardship. Lincoln skillfully navigated through the skepticism of his Cabinet and Congress, laying a firm groundwork for his wartime emancipation strategy and fostering the development of Generals Grant and Sherman, which bolstered their substantial role in the Union's victory. Churchill, amid political upheaval and military challenges, reorganized his War Cabinet, strengthened ties with the United States, and tirelessly orchestrated global diplomatic initiatives, while continuously urging his military commanders to achieve victory in North Africa.

Context

• The fall of Singapore was a significant defeat for the British during World War II. It highlighted failures in British military strategy and planning, as well as underestimations of Japanese capabilities, leading to the largest surrender of British-led forces in history.
• Lincoln's initial military strategies were focused on quick victories to restore the Union. However, as the war progressed and challenges mounted, he realized the need for a more comprehensive approach, leading to the adoption of total war tactics, which involved not just military engagements but also economic and psychological strategies to weaken the Confederacy.
• The public discontent Lincoln faced was partly due to the high casualties and perceived lack of progress in the Civil War. Many Northerners were frustrated with the ongoing conflict and the initial failures of Union generals, leading to criticism of Lincoln's leadership.
• The evacuation of British and Allied forces from Dunkirk, while a logistical success, highlighted the precarious military situation and loss of equipment.
• The Peninsula Campaign (March-July 1862) was a major Union operation launched in southeastern Virginia, aimed at capturing the Confederate capital of Richmond. It was marked by delays and cautious tactics, leading to its failure.
• In 1940, before Churchill became Prime Minister, the Norway Debate highlighted dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the war. This set the stage for ongoing scrutiny and challenges to Churchill's leadership.
• Before becoming a prominent Union general, Grant had resigned from the army in 1854 and struggled with civilian life. His early successes in the Western Theater, such as the capture of Forts Henry and Donelson, caught Lincoln's attention, leading to his promotion.
• The support from the United States provided critical resources and manpower that were essential for sustaining the British war effort, particularly during times when Britain faced severe shortages and military setbacks.
• Despite facing criticism and doubt from the public and political figures, both leaders maintained their course, believing in their vision for their countries' futures. Their ability to inspire and lead through adversity was central to their legacy.

1863-1943: Crucial Periods, Triumphs, and Evolving Partnerships.

The Tide Begins to Turn: Gettysburg and El Alamein signaled a shift in momentum, emboldened both leaders to pursue their strategic goals, and laid the groundwork for Allied victory, as Lincoln pressed for emancipation and Churchill navigated Anglo-American discord.

In 1863, Lehrman points out, the battle to maintain the Union arrived at a pivotal moment, underscored by major victories in Gettysburg and Vicksburg, which served as pivotal moments for Lincoln. The skillful management of these campaigns, despite facing obstacles and notable mistakes, strengthened confidence in the Northern cause and bolstered Lincoln's political stature, thereby solidifying support for his emancipation policies and his vision of a reunified nation.

In 1943, the writer portrays a time characterized by crucial strategic triumphs and the evolution of partnerships, which unfolded while Churchill was at the helm during the war. The tide of the war turned markedly for Britain following a succession of victories in North Africa, culminating in the decisive battle of El Alamein. Churchill, however, increasingly experienced friction as the dynamics of influence within the Grand Alliance shifted, with the United States gaining predominance over Britain. The British leader skillfully maneuvered through diplomatic avenues, utilizing his strong personal relationship with FDR to delay the military advance in France.

Practical Tips

• Use journaling to document daily experiences and periodically review your entries to spot shifts in your personal or professional life. This practice can reveal patterns and shifts in momentum that you might not notice in the day-to-day. For example, you might discover that attending a particular networking event led to a series of opportunities that boosted your career.
• Create a victory log to track and reflect on your successes. Keep a journal or digital document where you record each success, no matter how small, and detail what strategies contributed to that success. This practice will help you identify what works for you and can serve as a motivational tool when pursuing future goals.
• Engage in scenario planning for personal development by imagining different future situations and how you might respond to them. Write down potential personal or professional scenarios, such as a job loss or an unexpected opportunity, and plan out how the skills and experiences from your past can be applied to navigate these situations effectively.
• Create a personal "emancipation plan" to free yourself from a habit or situation that's holding you back. Identify what you want to change, set clear goals, and track your progress. Celebrate milestones to stay motivated, much like historical figures celebrated their achievements.
• You can enhance your conflict resolution skills by practicing active listening during disagreements with friends or colleagues. Start by focusing entirely on what the other person is saying without interrupting, and then repeat back to them what you've understood to ensure clarity and show that you value their perspective. This mirrors diplomatic strategies used in high-stakes negotiations and can improve personal and professional relationships.
• Create a support network by connecting with people who have faced similar challenges. Reach out to friends, family, or online communities and share experiences of overcoming obstacles. This can help you and others in the network gain confidence from each other's victories. For instance, if you're preparing for a marathon, joining a runners' group where members share their training breakthroughs can inspire and motivate you.
• Volunteer for leadership roles in community or group projects to gain recognition and build your reputation. Start with small projects or committees where you can make a significant impact. As you accumulate successes, you'll build a reputation for effectiveness, which can translate into increased political or social stature within your community or organization.

1864-1944: Hard-Fought Campaigns with the Anticipation of Success

Achieving a Commanding Endorsement for Triumph: Lincoln's steadfast commitment to securing a decisive victory, along with the expert orchestration of the Allied landings in Normandy, cemented their status as leaders and established the groundwork for the ultimate military successes, even in the face of growing war fatigue.

Lehrman portrays Lincoln's commitment to preserving the Union and abolishing slavery as steadfast, even amidst a divided Republican Party and growing war-weariness among the people of the North. The electorate's reaffirmation of their confidence in his guidance and blueprint for a united nation was solidified with his triumph in the fall election. Once Grant took charge, Lincoln could focus on the societal impacts that would ensue after a victory.

In 1944, Churchill's dedication to the total defeat of the Nazi forces in Europe remained steadfast, even as his influence diminished and his interactions with Roosevelt became increasingly strained. Lehrman depicts Churchill as a pivotal leader who steered through ambiguity and political turmoil to champion strategic objectives he deemed vital for preserving balance in Europe after the war.

Other Perspectives

• There is evidence that Lincoln was willing to compromise on the issue of slavery if it would help preserve the Union, such as his support for the Corwin Amendment, which would have protected slavery in states where it already existed.
• The notion of a solidified confidence overlooks the complexities of voter motivation and the possibility that support for Lincoln was conditional or reluctant among certain voters.
• Churchill's focus on total defeat might have overshadowed or delayed consideration of post-war reconstruction and the political, economic, and social challenges that would follow, which were also critical aspects of leadership during and after the war.
• The Yalta and Potsdam Conferences, where the Allied leaders met to discuss post-war Europe, involved significant contributions from Roosevelt and Stalin as well, indicating that the strategic objectives for Europe's future were not championed by Churchill alone.
• While Churchill's interactions with Roosevelt may have become strained, this did not necessarily undermine the effectiveness of their partnership or the overall Allied strategy, as they both remained committed to the defeat of the Axis powers.

Lincoln and Churchill's unwavering pursuit of complete victory, as well as the lasting heritages and global influence stemming from the wars they led, had profound political consequences.

This section concludes Lehrman's analysis, emphasizing the lasting impact of a wartime order that required unconditional surrender and the significant obstacles faced in reconstruction efforts domestically and abroad, as well as the deep impact these challenges had on English-speaking countries during the 19th and 20th centuries. He delves into how each leader steadfastly adhered to their core values, which informed their choices and strategic compromises, all with the goal of securing a just peace by eliminating tyranny.

A Heritage Symbolic of Steadfast Commitment to Armed Service

Establishing a fair and equitable peace: Lincoln's steadfast resolve to end slavery and Churchill's resolute opposition to Nazi aggression laid the groundwork for creating a new international order.

The writer highlights how the goals of Lincoln and Churchill were not limited to defeating their foes; they recognized the importance of creating a lasting peace founded on strong ethical principles, understanding that the threats of slavery and Nazism were worldwide issues affecting human well-being, rather than just regional problems. Initially focusing on uniting their countries and securing military victories, both leaders expanded their goals to encompass the eradication of slavery and the destruction of fascist beliefs, setting a standard for subsequent wars.

Lehrman argues that Lincoln's unwavering commitment to abolish slavery and Churchill's firm stance against Nazi aggression signified a pivotal shift in how wars are fought and concluded. Absolute intolerance was the necessary response to assaults on human freedom and dignity, including the enslavement of individuals and the doctrines of the Nazi regime. Ethical and political objectives ought to decisively influence the formation of military strategies. Their convictions fueled the conflicts in which they were involved. The conduct of warfare in the 20th and 21st centuries was deeply shaped by the established norms of those times.

Practical Tips

• You can foster a fair and equitable environment by volunteering as a mediator in local community disputes. By learning basic conflict resolution skills through free online resources, you can help neighbors and community members resolve their issues peacefully, promoting fairness and equity on a micro level.
• Volunteer with organizations that work to combat modern forms of slavery and discrimination. By offering your time to support these causes, you contribute to the ongoing fight against injustices that have historical roots in slavery and Nazism, thus actively working towards improving human well-being.
• Incorporate ethical decision-making into your daily purchases by supporting businesses that actively fight against modern slavery and discriminatory practices. Research brands that are transparent about their supply chains and commit to fair labor practices. By consciously choosing where to spend your money, you're contributing to a market that values human rights, similar to how the leaders in the book aimed to change societal norms.
• You can reflect on your daily decisions by keeping an "Ethics Journal" where you note instances where you had to make a choice and how you prioritized ethical considerations. This practice will help you become more aware of your values and decision-making patterns. For example, if you had to choose between two vendors for a project, one being more environmentally responsible but slightly more expensive, noting down your thought process can help you analyze and reinforce your commitment to ethical principles.
• Engage with interactive online simulations that allow you to make strategic decisions in hypothetical war scenarios based on moral principles. Look for games or apps that challenge you to balance military objectives with ethical considerations, similar to the dilemmas faced by leaders during the abolitionist movement or World War II. Through these simulations, you can better understand the complexities and consequences of decisions made in the context of war.
• Start a conversation with friends or family about the importance of human freedom and dignity by using hypothetical scenarios. Pose questions like, "What would you do if you saw someone's rights being violated?" to encourage critical thinking and awareness. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the values you and your community hold and how they can be upheld in everyday life.
• Engage in community discussions or online forums that focus on the intersection of ethics, politics, and strategy. By actively participating, you can develop a nuanced perspective on how these elements interact in real-world scenarios. For example, if there's a local town hall meeting discussing the community's approach to security, attend and contribute your thoughts on how ethical considerations should guide the community's strategies.
• Start a book club focused on historical fiction or non-fiction that explores the themes of conviction and warfare, using the discussions to gain insights into how convictions shape actions. By engaging with others in discussions about characters or real figures whose convictions influenced warfare, you can better understand the role of personal beliefs in driving collective actions and apply this understanding to group dynamics in your workplace or community.

Reconstruction: The Persistent Trials Following Triumph

Lincoln endeavored to mend a nation torn apart by the consequences of slavery, while Churchill was resolute in guiding a war-weary Britain through a world transformed by the rise of Soviet power, highlighting the persistent challenges of reconstruction following warfare.

Lehrman notes that subsequent to their victories, new challenges arose for the two leaders. Lincoln's efforts to heal the fractured South and bring together a split Congress through a plan designed to restore peace and freedom were suddenly cut short by his premature demise. Upon succeeding Lincoln, Johnson lacked comparable adeptness in navigating the intricate post-war political terrain and pursued a distinct approach to reconstruction.

The author portrays Churchill's endeavor to guide a war-weary Britain through the final years of World War II as the country confronted changes in the world's power structure. As the likelihood of victory for the Allies grew, Churchill increasingly focused his attention on shaping the postwar global landscape, emphasizing the restriction of Soviet expansion and the maintenance of the British Empire's integrity. The extended duration of the conflict had exhausted the populace, and this fatigue, combined with the triumph of Clement Attlee's socialist party in the 1945 general election following the loss of the Conservative Party, hindered his efforts. Churchill's accurate forecasts were largely overlooked at the end of World War II, despite their precision. The era that Churchill knew well came to a close as British dominance waned.

Context

• Lincoln proposed the Ten Percent Plan, which offered a lenient path for Southern states to rejoin the Union if 10% of their voters swore an oath of allegiance to the Union and accepted the end of slavery.
• Post-war Britain faced rationing, housing shortages, and the need to rebuild its infrastructure, which added to the public's war-weariness and desire for change.
• A faction within Lincoln's own party, known as the Radical Republicans, opposed his lenient approach. They advocated for harsher measures and greater protections for formerly enslaved people, leading to tensions within Congress.
• Johnson's lack of support for the Freedmen's Bureau and his veto of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 demonstrated his reluctance to promote racial equality, which hindered progress during Reconstruction.
• Churchill faced the reality of decolonization, as many former colonies sought independence, challenging the traditional British Empire's global influence.
• The Labour Party's victory in 1945 reflected a shift in British domestic priorities towards welfare and social reform, which contrasted with Churchill's imperial focus. This change in government also influenced Britain's postwar foreign policy direction.
• Churchill's concerns about the Soviet Union were rooted in his understanding of Stalin's ambitions and the potential for Soviet influence to spread across Europe, which later became evident during the Cold War.
• The U.S.-led Marshall Plan provided significant economic aid to Western Europe, including Britain, but also reinforced American influence in the region.

Lincoln and Churchill each followed unique paths, characterized by their personal qualities and core values, as they ascended to leadership roles during wartime unexpectedly.

This part aims to identify the shared leadership qualities that linked these two extraordinary individuals, notwithstanding their distinct personalities and backgrounds. Lehrman explores the unique traits and common challenges that forged their unwavering resolve and profound commitment to their countries' prosperity and the broader global community.

Shaped by the intense heat of wartime conflict.

Lincoln and Churchill's skillful management of armed forces, their successful coordination of political coalitions, and their capacity to suppress domestic dissent showcase their commitment to their positions, deep comprehension of their nations, and exceptional leadership skills in periods of significant strain.

Lehrman suggests that the challenges of war revealed both the commendable traits and the deficiencies in how Lincoln and Churchill governed. Both faced unprecedented challenges and were forced to make agonizing decisions while countless lives were lost and their countries faced grave dangers. Both men faced intense scrutiny while navigating complex political landscapes, simultaneously ensuring collaboration with key military leaders and significant figures within their respective governments.

Undeterred by obstacles, treachery, or the peril to their own existence, both leaders persisted resolutely in their respective quests. Churchill was thoroughly at home while orchestrating the efforts of Britain's military and its partners from the secure confines of his subterranean command center, marshaling a global response to Hitler's aggression. Lincoln assumed command from a humble telegraph station within the nation's capital while Confederate forces threatened Washington. Both unwaveringly upheld their dedication to their duties, tirelessly working towards the victory they believed was vital for their nation's survival, while preserving their core principles and possessing a clear vision of future events.

Other Perspectives

• The effectiveness of their management of armed forces and political coalitions can be debated, as there were instances of military setbacks and political opposition that suggest room for improvement in their leadership approaches.
• The idea that they had a deep understanding of their nations does not account for the criticisms they faced from opposition groups who felt that their policies did not represent the entirety of the nation's interests or values.
• The term "unprecedented challenges" could be seen as relative and subjective, as what is unprecedented often depends on the historical context and the specific circumstances of each leader's time.
• Ensuring collaboration does not always equate to the most effective or efficient leadership, as too many competing interests can lead to compromises that dilute strategic effectiveness.
• The focus on their persistence might overshadow the contributions of others in their administrations and military staff who played crucial roles in overcoming obstacles and ensuring the nations' perseverance.
• The notion that Churchill was "thoroughly at home" in his command center could be seen as downplaying the stress and burden of leadership during such a tumultuous period.
• The emphasis on the leaders' belief in the importance of victory could be seen as an oversimplification of their motivations, which might have also included personal ambition, political pressure, or other factors not solely related to the nation's survival.
• The effectiveness of their visions can be critiqued, as hindsight reveals that some of their expectations for the post-war world did not materialize as they might have anticipated.