Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States and is one of the most famous people in American history. He led the country during a very difficult time and worked hard to end slavery. Let’s learn about his early life, his career, and why he is still remembered today.
Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a small log cabin in Kentucky. His family was not wealthy, and they moved to Indiana when he was seven. Lincoln’s parents taught him the difference between right and wrong, especially about slavery. Even though he didn’t go to school much, Lincoln loved to read and learn new things. This helped him later when he became a lawyer and got into politics.
When Lincoln was 22, he moved to New Salem, Illinois. He worked different jobs, like running a store, and even served as a captain in a war called the Black Hawk War. He first tried to get into politics by running for the Illinois State Legislature but lost. He didn’t give up and eventually won a seat in the Illinois House of Representatives when he was 25. He married Mary Todd in 1842, and they had four children together.
Lincoln continued his political journey by serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. He also ran for the U.S. Senate against Stephen Douglas. Although he lost, the debates they had made Lincoln well-known for his strong stance against slavery. In 1860, he became President of the United States, ready to take on the big challenge of ending slavery.
Lincoln became president just as the Civil War began. This war was mainly about slavery and states’ rights. Some Southern states left the Union to form their own country. Lincoln was determined to keep the country together. In 1863, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that enslaved people in the Confederate states were free. This was a big step toward ending slavery in America.
One of Lincoln’s most famous speeches is the Gettysburg Address, given on November 19, 1863. He spoke about liberty and equality, saying that “all men are created equal.” This speech is still remembered today for its powerful message about what America stands for.
The Civil War ended in 1865, but sadly, Lincoln was assassinated just days later on April 14, 1865, by John Wilkes Booth. His death was a huge loss for the country. Lincoln is remembered through many memorials, like the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., and his face is on the five-dollar bill and the penny. His work and dedication to justice continue to inspire people.
Abraham Lincoln’s life story, from a small log cabin to the presidency, shows the power of hard work and standing up for what is right. His leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to end slavery changed America forever. Lincoln reminds us of the importance of equality and respect for all people. What do you find most interesting about Lincoln’s life?
Create Your Own Log Cabin: Abraham Lincoln was born in a small log cabin. Gather some craft sticks, glue, and paper to build your own miniature log cabin. Think about what life might have been like for Lincoln growing up in such a place. Discuss with your family or friends how living in a log cabin might have influenced Lincoln’s character and determination.
Explore the Power of Words: Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is famous for its powerful message. Try writing your own short speech about something important to you, like friendship or kindness. Share it with your class or family and discuss how words can inspire and bring about change, just like Lincoln’s speeches did.
Map the Journey: Use a map to trace Lincoln’s journey from Kentucky to Indiana, then to Illinois, and finally to Washington, D.C. Mark these places on the map and research one interesting fact about each location. Discuss how moving to different places might have helped Lincoln learn and grow as a person and a leader.
