Uncovering the Fascinating Background Information of Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is one of the greatest presidents of the United States and is famous for his Emancipation Proclamation which abolished slavery. However, there is more to Lincoln’s background than this single accomplishment. In this article, we will explore the fascinating background information of Abraham Lincoln that helped shaped his character and leadership.
Early Life and Family
Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Sinking Spring Farm, Kentucky. He was the second child of Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks. Lincoln’s family moved to Indiana when he was seven years old, where he spent much of his childhood. Lincoln was a self-taught individual who often read books borrowed from his neighbors.
Lincoln’s family was very poor, and his mother died when he was only nine years old. His father remarried a widow named Sarah Bush Johnston, who became Lincoln’s stepmother and helped shape his character. She encouraged him to read and learn, and also taught him compassion and kindness.
Early Career and Political Life
Lincoln began his political career in the Illinois House of Representatives, where he served for four terms. In 1846, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served for one term. In 1856, Lincoln became a member of the newly-formed Republican Party and gained national recognition for his “House Divided” speech, which stated that “a house divided against itself cannot stand.”
Lincoln’s presidency was marked by the Civil War, which broke out in 1861. He faced fierce opposition from the Confederate army, but his leadership and determination led the Union to victory. In 1863, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were free.
Interests and Hobbies
Lincoln was known for his talent as a storyteller and often entertained guests with humorous anecdotes. He was also interested in mechanics and loved to tinker with machines. Lincoln was an avid reader and enjoyed reading Shakespeare and the Bible.
Lincoln’s love of animals is also well-known. He had many pets, including a dog named Fido and a turkey which he pardoned on Thanksgiving Day.
Legacy and Impact
Abraham Lincoln’s legacy still lives on today. He is remembered for his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery. His speeches, such as the Gettysburg Address, are still studied and remembered, and his face is immortalized on the U.S. penny and five-dollar bill.
Lincoln’s leadership style, characterized by honesty and integrity, has been an inspiration for many leaders around the world. His words still hold relevance, and his example serves as a reminder of the power of determination and the importance of fighting for what is right.
Conclusion
Abraham Lincoln was a remarkable individual whose background helped shape his leadership and character. His life story serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the power of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of making positive changes in the world. Understanding Lincoln’s background can help us appreciate the man behind the accomplishments and draw lessons from his life that we can apply to our own.
