So much for reading Abe Lincoln's face .... I mean with the naked eye. Evidently, artists, sculptures and photographers already knew that Lincoln had a good side (everybody does, right?) But science has now confirmed that it is a fact. With laser scans of two life masks (I didn't say death masks), made from plaster, the scans reveal that Lincolns facial asymmetry was not equal by a long shot.
The scans show that the left side of Lincoln's face was much smaller than the right (called cranial facial microsomia.) This defect is in addition to ailments he had; including, smallpox; heart illness and depression. It is also stated that Lincoln's left eye at times drifted upward independently of his right eye (strabismus.) and that his left eye socket (which was much smaller) may have displaced a muscle controlling vertical movement. Severe strabismus can lead to double vision and with today's technology can be treated by surgery. These findings are published in the August issue of the Archives of Ophthamology, by Dr. Ronald Fishman who led the study. My source: The Washington Times 8/14/07.
My take on this info, is that with all the ailments he had, what a miracle that he could think clearly and stay focused. And, with the way today's society is so centered on looks... amazing he succeeded without ridicule, psychological problems from his looks, ecetera, ecetera.
At any rate; want to read about Honest Abe online. Check out "The Project Gutenberg EBook of Abraham Lincoln, Vol. I., by John T. Morse. This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License includedwith this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net" Here is the link . Pretty Amazing.
2 comments:
Interesting post. Historians and pundits have said that in today's media driven image conscious world Lincoln would never have been elected based on his looks and high-pitched, squeal voice tone. Then add his wife's mental state to the mix.
That was my first thought too : ) History class always taught how Kennedy got in on the Women's vote because of his looks... and it is true...people dont' look behind the cover.
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