Abraham Lincoln

Sixteenth President 1861-1865

Born: February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Hodgenville, Hardin (now Larue) County, Kentucky.

Education: Self-educated.

Occupation: Farmer, ferryman, storekeeper, lawyer, and public official.

Religion: No formal affiliation

Family Life: Married Mary Todd of Kentucky in 1842. They had four sons. Mary was hot-tempered and highly emotional. She passed away in 1882 at her sister's home in Springfield, Illinois, the same house from which she had walked as the bride of Abraham Lincoln, 40 years before.

Political Career: Elected to Illinois State Legislature as a Whig in 1834-40, while still studying law, known as an excellent debater, he was named Floor Leader. Served two years in United States Congress 1847-49. In 1858 Lincoln ran against Stephen A. Douglas for Senator. Lincoln lost the election, but in debating with Douglas he gained a national reputation that won him the Republican nomination for President in 1860. Reelected in 1864 because of Union successes in Civil War, but assassinated in early 1865.

Highlights of His Presidency: Pursued efforts of compromise in opposition to secession instead called for troops on April 15, 1861 and on July 21, Bull Run was fought. Issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. Sponsored the National Bank Act to improve the nation's finances. Was assassinated five days after Lee surrendered to Grant.

Appearance: Very tall (6' 4"), vigorous, and raw-boned, with black hair and beard.

Died: April 15, 1865, after being shot on Good Friday at Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C. by John Wilkes Booth, an actor.

Buried: At Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, Illinois.

Famous Words: "It is a momentous thing, to be the instrument, under Providence, of the liberation of a race." ~ speaking to Colonel McKaye of New York of Lincoln's signing the Emancipation Proclamation.

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