Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865) was the 16th president of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. He is one of the most revered figures in American history, known for leading the country through the Civil War, preserving the Union, and abolishing slavery.

🇺🇸 Quick Overview

Full Name	Abraham Lincoln
Born	February 12, 1809 – Hodgenville, Kentucky
Died	April 15, 1865 – Washington, D.C. (assassinated)
Political Party	Republican (previously Whig)
Presidency	1861–1865 (16th U.S. President)

🏛️ Major Achievements

🔹 The Emancipation Proclamation (1863)

Freed enslaved people in the Confederate states.
A moral and political turning point in the Civil War.

🔹 Preservation of the Union

Led the U.S. through its most devastating internal conflict — the Civil War.
Refused to recognize the legitimacy of the Confederacy.

🔹 Gettysburg Address (1863)

One of the most famous speeches in U.S. history.
Emphasized national unity, equality, and democracy:

“Government of the people, by the people, for the people…”

🔹 Thirteenth Amendment

Lincoln championed this amendment, which permanently abolished slavery in the U.S.
Passed by Congress shortly before his death.

🧑‍🌾 Early Life & Background

Born in a log cabin in rural Kentucky.
Largely self-educated, worked as a farm laborer, store clerk, and eventually taught himself law.
Became a successful lawyer and Illinois state legislator, later serving one term in the U.S. House of Representatives.

⚔️ The Civil War (1861–1865)

Lincoln was president during the deadliest war in American history.
His leadership kept the Union intact and paved the way for the end of slavery.
Faced immense political and military pressure but remained committed to democracy and justice.

🕊️ Assassination

Assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, at Ford’s Theatre, just days after the Civil War ended.
Died the next morning, April 15.
Became a martyr for the cause of liberty and union.

🗿 Legacy

Widely considered one of the greatest U.S. presidents.
Honored with the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Faces on the U.S. penny and $5 bill.
His leadership, humility, and eloquence continue to inspire.

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A timeline of his life?
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