USA and South Africa

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Alan Johnston presents insight, wit and analysis from BBC correspondents around the world. Today: Adam Smith on the USA and Pumza Fihlani in South Africa. President Lincoln: still America's "Father Abraham" One of the most enduring figures in American history was born into poverty in a one-room log cabin in rural Kentucky. But Abraham Lincoln was destined for an extraordinary life, and to lead his country through the great trauma of the American Civil War. His political charisma somehow conveyed paternal care; many Americans saw and still see hiim as a father to the nation. This month marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, leading historian Adam Smith to reflect on Lincoln's legacy. A daughter-in-law's duties in South Africa While many eyes are on the royal wedding in London, the Fihlani family of South Africa are looking forward to their own special event. It's the marriage of their daughter, Pumza this weekend. Pumza is a producer in the BBC's Johannesburg bureau, and enjoys a thoroughly modern, independent lifestyle. But as she explains, marriage in her Xhosa culture comes bound up with many rather demanding expectations and traditions - so and a certain amount of compromise is necessary to keep the in-laws happy.