Abraham Lincoln | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 03, 2025

Who is Abraham Lincoln?

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, served from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. Born on February 12, 1809, in Hodgenville, Kentucky, Lincoln faced numerous hardships in his early life, including the death of his mother and the family's struggles with poverty. Despite these challenges, he became a self-taught lawyer and gained political traction as he opposed slavery and worked towards unifying a divided nation during the Civil War. His leadership during this tumultuous time, coupled with his dedication to the principles of democracy and equality, has solidified his status as one of America's most revered figures.

Lincoln's presidency is most notable for the Emancipation Proclamation, issued in 1863, which freed enslaved people in the Confederate states. He articulated the importance of human rights in his famous Gettysburg Address, delivered in 1863, where he stressed the mission of the Civil War as not only preserving the Union but also achieving the ideal that all men are created equal. His commitment to these principles paved the way for the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States. Lincoln's profound legacy, characterized by his humanitarian ideals and political acumen, continues to resonate in American society today.

Early Life and Education

Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in Hodgenville, Kentucky, to Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln. His early life was marked by hardship; the family moved to Indiana in search of better opportunities due to a land dispute. Living in a crude shelter, they relied on hunting and farming for sustenance. The death of Lincoln's mother in 1818 when he was just nine years old profoundly affected him, leading to a sense of alienation from his father. The arrival of a stepmother, Sarah Bush Johnston, provided some stability, as she nurtured Lincoln's intellectual curiosity and encouraged him to read.

Despite his challenging circumstances, Lincoln's education was a pivotal part of his upbringing. He received an estimated total of 18 months of formal schooling, mostly from local schools, and became voracious in seeking out reading materials. He would often walk miles to borrow books, including the Bible and classic literature such as "Robinson Crusoe" and "Aesop's Fables." This self-driven education laid the foundation for Lincoln's future endeavors, both as a storyteller and a politician. His early experiences also instilled in him a deep understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary Americans, which would later shape his political philosophy and leadership.

Political Career Starting in 1834

Abraham Lincoln's political career began in 1834 when he was elected to the Illinois State Legislature as a member of the Whig Party. His initial foray into politics was marked by a commitment to government-sponsored infrastructure and protective tariffs, reflecting his belief that economic development hinged on these policies. Throughout his legislative tenure, he gained invaluable experience and recognition. By the early 1840s, he had established himself as a formidable presence in Illinois politics, yet his aspirations for national influence were just beginning to take shape.

In 1847, Lincoln served a single term in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he made headlines by opposing the Mexican-American War. This stance, although unpopular at home, demonstrated his growing moral convictions, particularly regarding the expansion of slavery. After his brief congressional term, he returned to practicing law in Springfield, Illinois, but the contentious issues of the day ignited his political zeal once more. The passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854 solidified his commitment to combat slavery, leading to his alignment with the newly formed Republican Party and setting the stage for his eventual rise to the presidency.

Successes and Achievements including the Emancipation Proclamation

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, is celebrated for his remarkable successes and achievements, particularly during one of the nation’s most tumultuous periods—the Civil War. His leadership was instrumental in preserving the Union and ultimately led to the abolition of slavery in the United States. Lincoln's eloquent vision of democracy and self-governance inspired citizens and future leaders alike. His ability to navigate intricate political landscapes, coupled with his commitment to equality and human rights, set a precedent that would shape the nation’s trajectory for generations.

One of Lincoln's most significant achievements was the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. This landmark executive order declared that all enslaved individuals in Confederate-held territory were to be freed, reshaping the purpose of the Civil War from solely preserving the Union to also abolishing slavery. Although the immediate impact of the Proclamation was limited, it marked a crucial turning point in the war and allowed for the enlistment of Black soldiers into the Union Army, which bolstered the Northern effort. The essence of Lincoln's legacy lies in this transformative act, as it laid the groundwork for the eventual passage of the 13th Amendment, which formally ended slavery in the United States.

Lincoln’s presidency is characterized not only by the trials of war but also by his remarkable ability to foster unity and healing. Delivered at a time of great division, his speeches, particularly the Gettysburg Address, highlighted the ideals of freedom and equality, emphasizing the need for a nation reborn in justice. Through his visionary leadership, Abraham Lincoln secured his place as one of America’s greatest heroes, whose achievements continue to influence the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality across the nation.

Assassination and Impact

Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on April 14, 1865, a mere days after General Robert E. Lee's surrender, signaling the end of the Civil War. The assassination was carried out by John Wilkes Booth, a well-known actor and a Confederate sympathizer, at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. Lincoln was shot in the back of the head while attending a play and was immediately taken to Petersen House, where he remained in a coma for about nine hours before succumbing to his injuries early the next morning. His assassination shocked the nation, leading to widespread mourning and outrage, uniting a country already reeling from the effects of war.

Lincoln’s death had a profound impact on the United States, altering the course of Reconstruction and America’s approach to civil rights. It deprived the nation of a leader who was committed to healing the wounds of a fractured country and promoting a smooth reconciliation with the South. The subsequent administration, led by Andrew Johnson, faced significant challenges, including radical opposition and a push for harsher treatment of former Confederates. Lincoln’s legacy, marked by his efforts to abolish slavery and preserve the Union, became even more pronounced following his death, as he was hailed as a martyr for democracy and equality. The Lincoln Memorial, dedicated in 1922, stands as a testament to his enduring influence and the ideals he championed during his presidency.

Personal Life: Married Life | Wife | Children

Abraham Lincoln married Mary Todd on November 4, 1842. Mary, known for her intelligence and spirited personality, came from a prominent Kentucky family. Their relationship was complex, marked by mutual dedication but also periods of instability. Initially engaged in 1840, their engagement was briefly broken before they reunited, overcoming the doubts of friends and family about their compatibility. Together, they faced numerous personal challenges, including the heart-wrenching loss of three of their four children during infancy or early childhood.

The couple had four sons: Robert Todd, Edward Baker, William Wallace, and Thomas "Tad" Lincoln. Robert, the eldest, was the only one to survive to adulthood. Tragically, Edward died at just 16 months, and Willie passed away at the age of 11 from typhoid fever, which deeply affected both Lincoln and Mary. Tad, the youngest, had a close bond with his father and was often seen playing games with him in the White House. This family dynamic, including the joys and sorrows they faced, shaped Lincoln's views on life and leadership in profound ways.

Net Worth and Earning: Earnings as President

Abraham Lincoln's financial status during his presidency was modest compared to today's political figures. When he assumed office in 1861, his annual salary was set at $25,000, a substantial amount for that era but still reflective of a relatively humble lifestyle. Despite the immense pressures and responsibilities of leading the country through the Civil War, Lincoln remained dedicated to serving the public rather than amassing personal wealth. His salary, while significant, was largely supplemented by his previous earnings as a lawyer, where he had built a respectable reputation and income.

Lincoln's financial situation also reflected his values. While he had opportunities to increase his wealth through various means, such as investments or patronage, he consistently prioritized the welfare of the nation and its citizens over personal gain. His commitment to public service meant that he often put the needs of the country ahead of his own financial interests, further illustrating his character as a leader willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. Following his assassination in 1865, his estate was valued at a modest amount, underscoring that his legacy was one of moral integrity rather than financial success.