Abraham Lincoln
- Born:
- February 12, 1809, Sinking Spring Farm, Hodgenville, Kentucky, USA
- Died:
- April 15, 1865, Petersen House, Washington, D.C., USA
- 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.
- Read law and was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1836.
Career and Major Achievements
- Served in the Illinois State Legislature (1834-1842).
- Served one term in the U.S. House of Representatives (1847-1849).
- Gained national prominence through his debates with Stephen Douglas in 1858.
- 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.
- Signed the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery.
- Delivered the Gettysburg Address, one of the most famous speeches in American history.
- Re-elected as President in 1864.
Notable Works
- The Emancipation Proclamation (1863)
- The Gettysburg Address (1863)
- His speeches and writings, many of which are considered literary masterpieces.
- Notably, understanding sources about Lincoln's life such as the 'gershon hepner biography of abraham lincoln' provides deep insight.
Legacy and Impact
Abraham Lincoln is considered one of the greatest presidents in American history. He preserved the Union during the Civil War and emancipated enslaved people. His leadership and vision continue to inspire people around the world.