Abraham Lincoln: Key Facts

This page provides essential biographical information about Abraham Lincoln, highlighting his role as the 16th President of the United States.

• Born: February 12, 1809 • Died: April 15, 1865 (assassinated) • Presidency: 16th President of the United States • Elections: First elected in 1860, re-elected in 1864 • Political affiliation: Republican Party

Vocabulary: The Republican Party, founded in 1854, was established primarily to oppose the expansion of slavery. Lincoln was the first Republican to be elected president.

Highlight: Lincoln's assassination on April 15, 1865, came just days after the end of the American Civil War, cutting short his plans for post-war reconciliation.

Curriculum Vitae of Abraham Lincoln

This page outlines key events in Abraham Lincoln's life, from his early years to his presidency and tragic death.

Lincoln's early life was marked by hardship, including the death of his mother in 1818. He developed a close relationship with his stepmother, whom he affectionately called his "Angel-mother." In 1836, Lincoln began studying law and soon started his legal practice. He married Mary Todd in 1842, forming a partnership that would last until his death.

Lincoln's political career began during Andrew Jackson's presidency. He joined the Republican Party in 1856 and was nominated as their presidential candidate in 1860 after a contentious convention. On March 4, 1861, Lincoln was inaugurated as the first Republican President, facing the immense challenge of a nation on the brink of civil war.

Quote: "I am a slow walker, but I never walk back." - Abraham Lincoln

The tragic end of Lincoln's life came on April 15, 1865, when he was assassinated while attending a play at Ford's Theater in Washington, D.C.

Highlight: Lincoln's journey from a humble background to the presidency exemplifies the American ideal of social mobility and the potential for individuals to rise based on their merits and determination.

Lincoln's Achievements for America

This page summarizes the most significant accomplishments of Abraham Lincoln's presidency, which profoundly shaped the course of American history.

Lincoln's presidency was defined by four major achievements:

1. Preserving the Union: Lincoln's unwavering commitment to maintaining the United States as a single, indivisible nation guided his actions throughout the Civil War.

2. Abolishing slavery: Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation and his support for the 13th Amendment led to the end of slavery in the United States.

3. Bolstering the federal government: Lincoln's actions during the Civil War significantly strengthened the power and authority of the federal government.

4. Modernizing the U.S. economy: Lincoln's policies, including the establishment of a national banking system and support for railroads, helped lay the foundation for America's industrial growth.

Definition: The Emancipation Proclamation was an executive order issued by President Lincoln on January 1, 1863, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate states were free.

Example: Lincoln's support for the Transcontinental Railroad, authorized by the Pacific Railway Act of 1862, exemplifies his efforts to modernize the American economy and unite the country.

Abraham Lincoln: A Comprehensive Overview

This page provides a detailed grid summarizing Lincoln's biographical information, historical context, and lasting impact on America and its international position.

Biographical Information: • 16th President of the United States $1861-1865$ • Preserved the Union during the Civil War • Abolished slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation and 13th Amendment • Strengthened the federal government • Modernized the U.S. economy • Opposed the Crittenden Compromise, which would have allowed slavery to expand westward

Historical Background: • The 19th century saw the United States deeply divided over slavery • The American Civil War resulted in over 600,000 deaths • Lincoln rose from a childhood of poverty to become a lawyer and politician • Renowned for his oratorical skills • Opposed slavery, inspired by figures like John Brown • Faced the challenge of a fragmenting Union upon taking office • Led the country through its bloodiest conflict, the Civil War

Achievements and Legacy: • Successfully preserved the Union • Achieved the abolition of slavery in all states • Assassinated due to anger and hatred from opponents • Remembered as the savior of the Union and emancipator of enslaved people • Became a global symbol for democracy and freedom • Admired by many, but also hated by those who opposed his policies, particularly slave traders

Political Career: • Member of the Illinois House of Representatives $1834-1842$ • U.S. Representative from Illinois $1847-1849$ • President of the United States $1861-1865$

Highlight: Lincoln's presidency marked a turning point in American history, fundamentally altering the nature of the federal government and enshrining the principles of equality and freedom in the Constitution.

Example: The Gettysburg Address, delivered by Lincoln in 1863, is considered one of the most important speeches in American history, eloquently restating the principles of human equality outlined in the Declaration of Independence.

Sources

This page lists the references used to compile the information about Abraham Lincoln, including:

• Wikipedia's article on Abraham Lincoln • Encyclopædia Britannica's biography of Abraham Lincoln • The White House's official biography of Abraham Lincoln

Highlight: These sources provide a comprehensive and authoritative overview of Abraham Lincoln's life, presidency, and historical significance.

Abraham Lincoln: American Presidents

This page introduces Abraham Lincoln as a subject of study within the context of American presidents. It sets the stage for exploring Lincoln's life, presidency, and lasting impact on the United States.

Highlight: Abraham Lincoln is widely regarded as one of the most influential and important presidents in American history.