Fascinated by mechanical gadgetry and technology, Lincoln introduced         breechloaders and machine guns into warfare and promoted the use of incendiary         weapons, ironclad warships, breechloading cannons, and aerial reconnaissance.         Robert Bruce chronicles the President's struggle against bureaucratic         red tape and his dealings with the colorful parade of inventors, ordinance         experts, bureaucrats, military officers, and lobbyists who heralded a         new era in warfare.       "It is hardly going too far to say that Lincoln the president cannot         be properly understood without some acquaintanceship with this aspect         of his character. And it is not going in the least too far to add that         Bruce has assembled his material with care, industry, and intelligence         and has written a book of deep and surpassing interest and appeal."         -- Civil War Book Club Review