Lincoln and Ann Rutledge

[LincolnToddFan]

Oh no, I agree with you. He did not pressure his children in any way and undoubtedly would not have loved Robert any less if Robert had decided to forgo college. One of the striking things about both Lincolns was how laissez-faire their approach to parenting was. I have even heard them described as bad parents by a couple of people.

One journalist who visited the Lincoln home in Springfield shortly after AL was elected president wrote that Willie and Tad constantly interrupted adult conversation. They also climbed into their father's lap and twisted and pulled his ears and nose.

Lincoln chuckled, caressed them, and never reprimanded them even once.

Another incident had Lincoln picking up toddler Tad during a violent meltdown and holding the child out at arm's length. Tad repeatedly tried to kick his father in the face with his short little legs. Lincoln thought it uproariously funny.

One author has opined that Lincoln had a soft spot for people and things that were weak, broken or damaged in some way. That might explain his extraordinary tenderness and patience with his lisping, learning-challenged "Tadpole" who was still unable to dress himself or read at the age of twelve.