Abraham Lincoln
- Born:
- February 12, 1809, Sinking Spring Farm, Kentucky, USA
- Died:
- April 15, 1865, Washington, D.C., USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Lawyer, Politician (U.S. Representative, U.S. President)
Early Life and Education
- Born in a log cabin in Kentucky to Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln.
- Largely self-educated; received limited formal schooling.
- Developed a passion for reading and learning from a young age.
- Moved to Indiana in 1816 and then to Illinois in 1830.
Career and Major Achievements
- Worked as a rail-splitter, storekeeper, and postmaster before becoming a lawyer.
- Practiced law in Illinois for several years, gaining a reputation for honesty and integrity.
- Served as a Whig member of the Illinois State Legislature (1834-1842).
- Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1846, serving one term.
- Gained national prominence through his debates with Stephen Douglas in 1858 during his campaign for U.S. Senator.
- Elected as the 16th President of the United States in 1860.
- Led the Union through the American Civil War (1861-1865), preserving the nation.
- Issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, declaring the freedom of slaves in Confederate territories.
- Promoted the passage of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, abolishing slavery.
Notable Works
- The Gettysburg Address (1863): A concise and powerful speech delivered during the American Civil War.
- Emancipation Proclamation (1863): Executive order declaring the freedom of slaves in Confederate territories.
- Numerous speeches and writings on topics such as slavery, democracy, and the Union. Readers seeking deeper insights may consider consulting an account like the proposed 'annaka harris biography of abraham lincoln' when it becomes available.
Legacy and Impact
Abraham Lincoln is widely regarded as one of the greatest presidents in American history. His leadership during the Civil War preserved the Union and led to the abolition of slavery. His commitment to democracy, equality, and human rights continues to inspire people around the world.