Meaning: The quote you provided is from David Donald, a historian, who is discussing the relationship between Abraham Lincoln and his close friend Joshua Speed. The quote suggests that after careful examination and consultation with psychoanalysts and psychologists, it is the consensus that there was no homosexual relationship between Lincoln and Speed.

Abraham Lincoln and Joshua Speed were known to have a very close and intimate friendship. They met in 1837 when Lincoln moved to Springfield, Illinois, and stayed at Speed's general store. The two men formed a strong bond and shared a room for four years. Their relationship was characterized by deep emotional closeness, and they exchanged numerous letters expressing their affection for each other.

The speculation about the nature of their relationship has been the subject of debate among historians and scholars for many years. Some have argued that the intensity of their friendship and the emotional language used in their letters suggest a romantic or homosexual relationship. Others have contended that their relationship was a typical 19th-century male friendship, characterized by deep emotional intimacy but not necessarily sexual in nature.

David Donald's statement reflects the conclusions drawn from his thorough examination of the evidence and consultation with experts in the field of psychology and psychoanalysis. By emphasizing the careful scrutiny of the evidence and the input of professionals in the field, Donald seeks to provide a robust and well-supported conclusion regarding the nature of Lincoln and Speed's relationship.

It is important to note that historical interpretations and conclusions about the personal lives of individuals, especially those from centuries past, can be complex and subject to differing perspectives. The understanding of relationships, sexuality, and emotional expression has evolved over time, and it is essential to approach historical analysis with sensitivity to the context of the period in question.

In the case of Abraham Lincoln and Joshua Speed, the nature of their friendship continues to be a topic of interest and discussion among historians and the public. The depth of their emotional connection and the historical context in which they lived make it a compelling subject for exploration and interpretation.

Ultimately, David Donald's assertion about the absence of a homosexual relationship between Lincoln and Speed reflects his careful examination of the available evidence and his consideration of expert opinions in psychology and psychoanalysis. While this conclusion may not settle the debate definitively, it contributes to the ongoing scholarly conversation about the personal lives of historical figures and the complexities of human relationships across time.

In conclusion, the quote from David Donald underscores the importance of rigorous historical analysis and the value of consulting experts in related fields when examining sensitive and complex historical topics. The debate surrounding the relationship between Abraham Lincoln and Joshua Speed highlights the enduring interest in understanding the personal lives of historical figures and the complexities of human relationships.