Obama to Be Sworn in with Bible from Lincoln Inauguration

Barack Obama's admiration for Abraham Lincoln has been evident since he first emerged as a serious contender for the presidency. Obama often references Lincoln's skill as a politician and his willingness to tolerate and incorporate the dissenting opinions of his rivals into his policy development. In many ways, it is easy to draw parallels between the political climates that both men are entering.

The country is in turmoil now, as it was then. And if you consider the gravity of the financial crisis and the economic uncertainty, along with a multi-front Global War on Terror - Obama may actually be getting the short end of the stick. In reality, of course, Lincoln presided over the most tumultuous period in American history and paid the ultimate price when he was assassinated in 1865 by a Confederate sympathizer.

The historic bible that Obama will use during his swearing-in has not been in use since 1861, when Lincoln swore his oath upon it. And while Barack Obama will make history as the first African American to be elected President, Lincoln entered office with the historical distinction of being the first President ever elected from the Republican party. That's right, Lincoln was a Republican.

Like Lincoln, Obama is considered a formidable orator - and his presence in debates and other speaking engagements typically increases his public appeal. And like Lincoln, Obama has his work cut out for him.