Introduction
Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865) was the 16th president of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. He is widely regarded as one of America’s greatest presidents due to his leadership during the American Civil War, his efforts to preserve the Union, and his role in abolishing slavery. His legacy continues to shape the United States and global democratic ideals.
Abraham Lincoln
Early Life and Education
Childhood and Family Background
Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a one-room log cabin in Hardin County (now LaRue County), Kentucky, to Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln. His family was of humble origins, and his father, Thomas, was a farmer and carpenter. The Lincolns moved to Indiana in 1816 due to land disputes and the expansion of slavery in Kentucky.
Death of Mother and Stepmother’s Influence
Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, died in 1818 from milk sickness. His father remarried Sarah Bush Johnston, a widow with children, who played a crucial role in encouraging young Abraham’s education and intellectual curiosity.
Self-Education and Early Interests
Despite limited formal education, Lincoln was an avid reader. He borrowed books from neighbors, reading works such as the Bible, Aesop’s Fables, and Shakespeare’s plays. His self-education helped shape his strong oratory and analytical skills, which later defined his political career.
Early Career and Political Beginnings
Move to Illinois and First Jobs
In 1830, Lincoln moved to Illinois, where he took on various jobs, including working as a store clerk, rail-splitter, and postmaster. He eventually entered politics and law, developing a reputation for honesty and integrity.
Service in the Illinois Militia
Lincoln volunteered for the Illinois Militia during the Black Hawk War in 1832, serving as a captain. Although he did not see combat, his leadership skills gained recognition.
Entry into Politics
In 1834, Lincoln was elected to the Illinois State Legislature as a member of the Whig Party. He supported economic development policies such as banking and internal improvements, influenced by Henry Clay’s American System.
Legal Career
After being admitted to the Illinois bar in 1836, Lincoln became a successful lawyer, known for his persuasive arguments and keen analytical skills. He partnered with William Herndon in Springfield, Illinois.
Rise in National Politics
Election to Congress
Lincoln served a single term in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1847 to 1849. During this period, he opposed the Mexican-American War and introduced the Spot Resolutions, questioning the legitimacy of the war.
The Lincoln-Douglas Debates
In 1858, Lincoln ran against Stephen A. Douglas for the U.S. Senate. Although he lost, the debates on slavery and popular sovereignty gained him national recognition.
Formation of the Republican Party
As the Whig Party dissolved, Lincoln joined the newly formed Republican Party, which opposed the expansion of slavery.
Presidency (1861-1865)
Election of 1860 and Inauguration
Lincoln was elected as the 16th president in 1860, leading to Southern states seceding from the Union. He took office on March 4, 1861, emphasizing the need for unity.
The American Civil War
The Civil War began in April 1861 with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter. Lincoln took decisive measures, including expanding executive powers, issuing the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, and delivering the Gettysburg Address.
Reconstruction Plans
Lincoln advocated for lenient Reconstruction policies, aiming to reunify the nation quickly.
Assassination and Legacy
Assassination
Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theatre on April 14, 1865, and died the following morning.
Legacy and Impact
His leadership preserved the Union, abolished slavery, and strengthened democracy. Lincoln remains an enduring symbol of justice and equality.
Conclusion
Abraham Lincoln’s life and presidency transformed the United States. His dedication to democracy, human rights, and national unity makes him a timeless figure in world history.
References & More Readings
- Donald, David Herbert. Lincoln. Simon & Schuster, 1995.
- Goodwin, Doris Kearns. Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln. Simon & Schuster, 2005.
- McPherson, James M. Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era. Oxford University Press, 1988.
- White, Ronald C. A. Lincoln: A Biography. Random House, 2009.
- Holzer, Harold. Lincoln and the Power of the Press: The War for Public Opinion. Simon & Schuster, 2014.
- Burlingame, Michael. Abraham Lincoln: A Life. Johns Hopkins University Press, 2008.
- Sandburg, Carl. Abraham Lincoln: The Prairie Years and The War Years. Harcourt Brace, 1954.
- Foner, Eric. The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery. W.W. Norton, 2010.
- Neely, Mark E. The Last Best Hope of Earth: Abraham Lincoln and the Promise of America. Harvard University Press, 1993.
- Gienapp, William E. Abraham Lincoln and Civil War America: A Biography. Oxford University Press, 2002.
- Wilson, Douglas L. Lincoln’s Sword: The Presidency and the Power of Words. Knopf, 2006.
- Lincoln, Abraham. The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Edited by Roy P. Basler, Rutgers University Press, 1953.
- Current, Richard Nelson. The Lincoln Nobody Knows. Hill and Wang, 1958.
- Carwardine, Richard. Lincoln: A Life of Purpose and Power. Knopf, 2006.
- Oakes, James. The Crooked Path to Abolition: Abraham Lincoln and the Antislavery Constitution. W.W. Norton, 2021.
These sources provide in-depth information about Lincoln’s life, leadership, and the historical context of his presidency.