When Obama became President I remember reading the general consensus that he had a spark of Abraham Lincoln about him. I thought at the time this was a back-handed compliment insinuating that the famous Bill to liberate slaves was the beginning of Obama ‘s political career, but the reason given was the way in which he gave key posts to his political rivals. As Abraham Lincoln gave power to Seward, Bates, Chase and others so Obama gave power to Clinton.
Most American politicians get to where they are through the financial support of individuals many of whom desire political repayment – for themselves or their families. So to give power to someone who obviously never spent a penny on one’s own drive for office is magnanimous as well as wise. In Lincoln’s time he was the rank outsider who was chosen because the factions fighting for the other candidates fought each other to a standstill and Lincoln had the wisdom to see they were not enemies. A rival is only an enemy is particular circumstances.
On the other hand Obama is a realist and Clinton can do him less harm inside his cabinet than outside. Outside I would assume he would have been beaten in the next election if she had chosen to side with the Republican criticism of him. Inside she is going to be the linchpin of his whole campaign.
To have seen that three years ago is quite impressive.