This is the first in a series of posts on Great Fathers of History. Biographies and histories about great men often focus on political, intellectual, or cultural achievements but say little about their domestic relationships. Yet some of these men were exemplary fathers, whose lives carry valuable lessons for any current or prospective parent. This series seeks to unearth those lessons by exploring how these men raised their children and what they said, wrote or believed about what a father should be. * * * Whatever you think of his politics, former president Barack Obama’s dad skills are undeniable. Obama’s parenting reminds all dads of the importance of being present…