Abraham Lincoln
- Born:
- February 12, 1809, Sinking Spring Farm, Kentucky, United States
- Died:
- April 15, 1865, Washington, D.C., United States
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Lawyer, Politician, Statesman
Early Life and Education
- Born in a log cabin in Kentucky to Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln.
- Largely self-educated, with limited formal schooling.
- Avid reader and dedicated to self-improvement.
- Moved to Indiana and later to Illinois during his childhood.
Career and Major Achievements
- Practiced law in Illinois, becoming a respected trial lawyer.
- Served in the Illinois State Legislature.
- Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives (1847-1849).
- Gained national prominence through debates with Stephen Douglas during the 1858 Senate campaign.
- Elected as the 16th President of the United States in 1860.
- Led the Union through the American Civil War (1861-1865).
- Issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, declaring the freedom of slaves in Confederate territories.
- Promoted the passage of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery.
- Delivered the Gettysburg Address, a landmark speech in American history.
- Focused on preserving the Union and promoting national reconciliation after the Civil War.
Legacy and Impact
Abraham Lincoln is considered one of the greatest presidents in American history. His leadership during the Civil War preserved the Union, and his efforts to abolish slavery left a lasting impact on the nation. The full story of Abraham Lincoln reveals a man of great intellect, integrity, and political skill who navigated a turbulent period in American history.
Notable Works
- Gettysburg Address (1863)
- Emancipation Proclamation (1863)
- Numerous speeches and writings on political and social issues.
Honors and Awards
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Presidential Medal of Freedom (posthumously) | 1969 |
| Numerous statues, memorials, and monuments dedicated in his honor. | N/A |