Lincoln Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Lincoln.
Lincoln Ending Explained: The revealing story of the 16th US President's tumultuous final months in office. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this 2012 history film stars Daniel Day-Lewis (Abraham Lincoln), alongside Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln, David Strathairn as William Seward, Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Robert Lincoln. With a 6.8/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Lincoln?
The revealing story of the 16th US President's tumultuous final months in office. In a nation divided by war and the strong winds of change, Lincoln pursues a course of action designed to end the war, unite the country and abolish slavery. With the moral courage and fierce determination to succeed, his choices during this critical moment will change the fate of generations to come.
Steven Spielberg's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Daniel Day-Lewis (Abraham Lincoln)'s journey. In a nation divided by war and the strong winds of change, Lincoln pursues a course of action designed to end the war, unite the country and abolish slavery.
How Does Daniel Day-Lewis (Abraham Lincoln)'s Story End?
- Daniel Day-Lewis: Daniel Day-Lewis's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Sally Field (Mary Todd Lincoln): Sally Field's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- David Strathairn (William Seward): David Strathairn's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
Is Lincoln Based on a True Story?
Yes — Lincoln draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Steven Spielberg has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.
What Does the Ending of Lincoln Mean?
Lincoln's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Daniel Day-Lewis may feel rushed. Steven Spielberg's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution. Based on 4,045 audience ratings, the consensus is that the ending is adequate but divisive.