Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States, serving from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. He is best known for leading the country through the American Civil War and for his efforts to abolish slavery.

Early Life

Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky. His family later moved to Indiana and then to Illinois. Lincoln had very little formal education, but he was an avid reader and largely self-educated.

Political Career

Lincoln began his political career as a member of the Whig Party, and later became a member of the Republican Party. He served in the Illinois State Legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives before being elected as President in 1860.

Civil War and Emancipation Proclamation

Lincoln's presidency was dominated by the Civil War, a conflict between the Northern states (Union) and the Southern states (Confederacy) over issues including slavery and states' rights. Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be set free. This was a significant step towards the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.

Assassination and Legacy

Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, just days after the Confederate surrender. His leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to end slavery have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest presidents in American history.

Study Guide

1. What year was Abraham Lincoln born? 1809
2. Which political party was Lincoln a member of? Republican Party
3. What was the Emancipation Proclamation? It declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be set free.
4. When was Lincoln assassinated? April 14, 1865
5. What is Lincoln best known for? Leading the country through the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery.

[Abraham Lincoln] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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• Civil WarSocial Studies • Fourth Grade