Occupations: Railsplitter, flatboatman, storekeeper, postman, and surveyor
Political and Military Beginnings: Elected leader by volunteers in the Black Hawk War, marking the start of political connections
Political Career
Illinois State Legislature: Elected as a member of the Whig Party
Key Projects: Advocated for infrastructure development (railroads, highways, canals)
Anti-Slavery Stance: Early opposition to slavery, promoted commerce over agriculture
Law Career: Passed the bar exam in 1836; practiced law in Springfield, Illinois
Personal Life
Marriage: Mary Todd; had four children (Robert, Edward, William, Thomas)
Tragedy: Death of son Edward
National Politics
Kansas-Nebraska Act Opposition (1854): Spurred Lincoln into national politics
Rise in Republican Party: Gained recognition for anti-slavery views
"House Divided" Speech: 1858, critical stance on slavery
Presidency and Civil War
Election as 16th President (1860): Lincoln's election led to Southern secession and formation of Confederacy
Civil War Outbreak (1861): Started with attack on Fort Sumter
Union vs. Confederacy: Lincoln led the Union against Confederate states
Major Battles:
Antietam (1862): Union victory, led to Emancipation Proclamation
Gettysburg (1863): Turning point, followed by famous Gettysburg Address
Emancipation and Legacy
Emancipation Proclamation: Freed slaves in rebellious states
13th Amendment: Abolished slavery in the entire US
Assassination and Legacy
Assassination (1865): Shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theatre
Impact on Nation: Lincoln left a lasting legacy through his leadership and efforts to reunite the nation
Memorials: Lincoln's face on currency, memorials like Mount Rushmore and Lincoln Memorial
Conclusion
Lincoln's effective leadership during the Civil War and as President established him as a pivotal figure in American history, remembered for his dedication to unity and equality.