Top 50 Interesting and Unknown Facts About Abraham Lincoln
The 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, presided over the country from 1861 until his murder in 1865. Lincoln, who is well-known for his leadership during the Civil War, modernized the federal administration and economy of the United States, abolished slavery, and maintained the Union. He is regarded as one of America’s most admired leaders due to his significant presidency and dedication to democracy and freedom.
Before winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1846, Lincoln started his political career in Illinois as a member of the state legislature. But what initially made him well-known across the country were his debates with Stephen A. Douglas in 1858, when he was a candidate for the U.S. Senate. Despite losing that Senate contest, Lincoln’s persuasive speech and firm opposition to the spread of slavery prepared the ground for his victorious 1860 presidential campaign.
The Civil War broke out in 1861, posing a huge challenge to Lincoln as president. He courageously used his executive powers and made tough choices because he was determined to keep the Union intact.
The Emancipation Proclamation, which proclaimed all slaves in Confederate-held territory free on January 1, 1863, was one of his most well-known actions. In addition to redefining the Civil War as a struggle for human freedom, this executive order set the stage for the 13th Amendment’s ultimate eradication of slavery.
Dive into these 50 lesser-known facts to gain a fresh perspective on this remarkable figure.
1. Humble Beginnings
- Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky, symbolizing his humble roots.
2. Self-Educated
- Due to limited formal schooling, Lincoln was mostly self-taught, developing a love for books and knowledge early on.
3. The Great Emancipator’s Nickname
- Known as “Honest Abe,” Lincoln earned a reputation for integrity, famously walking miles to return a few cents to a customer he accidentally overcharged.
4. Struggles With Depression
- Lincoln faced significant mental health challenges, battling bouts of “melancholy,” now understood as depression.
5. Tallest President in U.S. History
- Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, Lincoln was the tallest U.S. president, which added to his commanding presence.
6. Unusual Pet Choices
- Lincoln had a special place in his heart for animals, including goats, cats, and a dog named Fido.
7. First Beard as President
- An 11-year-old girl, Grace Bedell, suggested Lincoln grow a beard to improve his appearance, and he took her advice.
8. Marriage to Mary Todd
- Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd, came from a wealthy slave-owning family, making her union with Lincoln a complex and politically charged one.
9. Early Political Defeats
- Lincoln faced several political losses before becoming president, including failed attempts at the Senate.
10. The Famous Gettysburg Address
- Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, delivered in 1863, is among the most celebrated speeches in history, though it lasted only two minutes.
11. Love for Shakespeare
- Lincoln had a deep appreciation for literature, especially Shakespeare, often quoting lines from his plays.
12. A Hands-On Leader
- Lincoln frequently visited battlefields and talked directly with soldiers, showing genuine concern for their welfare.
13. Issued the Emancipation Proclamation
- In 1863, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring freedom for slaves in Confederate states, a landmark move toward ending slavery.
14. First President Assassinated
- Tragically, Lincoln was the first U.S. president to be assassinated, marking a dark moment in American history.
15. Failed Business Ventures
- Before entering politics, Lincoln owned a general store, which eventually went bankrupt.
16. Strong Opponent of Slavery
- Though initially cautious in his approach, Lincoln became an outspoken advocate against slavery, a stance that shaped his presidency.
17. Law Career and Reputation
- Lincoln was a respected lawyer, known for his logical reasoning and ability to sway juries.
18. Signed the Homestead Act
- Lincoln signed the Homestead Act in 1862, promoting westward expansion and granting land to settlers.
19. Vision for Education
- Lincoln supported free public education, believing it essential for a democratic society.
20. Role in the Transcontinental Railroad
- Lincoln signed the Pacific Railway Act, paving the way for the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.
21. Fondness for Wrestling
- Lincoln was an accomplished wrestler in his youth and was even inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame.
22. Advocated for Technological Advancements
- Lincoln was the only president to hold a patent; he invented a device to lift boats over obstacles in waterways.
23. Strong Opposition to the Mexican-American War
- Lincoln criticized the Mexican-American War, questioning its justification and morality.
24. Avoided Duels
- Lincoln almost dueled with a political rival, James Shields, over a series of letters but avoided it after negotiation.
25. First President to Use the Telegraph
- Lincoln leveraged the telegraph to communicate with generals, showcasing his forward-thinking approach to technology.
26. Signed the Revenue Act of 1861
- Lincoln introduced the nation’s first income tax through the Revenue Act to fund the Civil War.
27. His Beloved Horse, Old Bob
- Lincoln’s favorite horse, Old Bob, attended his funeral procession, a testament to their bond.
28. Supported the 13th Amendment
- Lincoln passionately advocated for the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery, a move that defined his legacy.
29. A Poet at Heart
- Lincoln wrote poetry in his youth, displaying an introspective and creative side.
30. Known for His Wit
- Lincoln’s humor and storytelling skills were legendary, often used to defuse tense situations.
31. Oversaw Thanksgiving as a National Holiday
- Lincoln established Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863, fostering a spirit of gratitude.
32. Suspended Habeas Corpus
- To maintain control during the Civil War, Lincoln controversially suspended habeas corpus to detain individuals without trial.
33. Tragic Family Life
- Lincoln faced immense personal loss, with three of his four children dying young.
34. Passionate Reader of the Bible
- Though not strictly religious, Lincoln often read the Bible and drew from its wisdom.
35. Believed in Equal Rights for All
- While initially cautious about immediate equality, Lincoln’s views evolved, and he advocated for civil rights.
36. Faced Re-election Challenges
- Lincoln doubted he’d win re-election in 1864 due to public dissatisfaction with the war.
37. Took Criticism in Stride
- Lincoln endured significant criticism from newspapers but often accepted it as part of leadership.
38. Hosted a Séance in the White House
- After his son Willie’s death, Lincoln’s wife held seances, though Lincoln reportedly observed out of curiosity.
39. Dreamt of His Assassination
- Days before his assassination, Lincoln confided to friends about a dream where he saw his own death.
40. Impact on the Civil Rights Movement
- Lincoln’s actions laid the groundwork for future civil rights movements, making him a symbol of equality.
41. Established the Secret Service
- Lincoln authorized the creation of the Secret Service on the day he was assassinated, though initially to combat counterfeiting.
42. Skilled Axeman
- Known as the “Rail Splitter,” Lincoln’s strength and skill with an ax became symbolic of his hardworking nature.
43. Inspired by Founding Fathers
- Lincoln frequently referenced the Declaration of Independence, drawing inspiration from its ideals of equality.
44. Formed the National Banking System
- To stabilize the economy, Lincoln established a national banking system, a move that transformed American finance.
45. Admired Around the World
- Lincoln’s leadership and dedication to freedom earned him respect and admiration worldwide, particularly in Europe.
46. Lincoln’s Legacy in Art
- Lincoln’s likeness has been immortalized in numerous statues and portraits, reflecting his lasting impact on history.
47. Personal Tragedies Inspired Compassion
- His personal losses shaped Lincoln’s empathy for others, particularly those suffering during the Civil War.
48. Called for Healing Post-War
- In his second inaugural address, Lincoln advocated for peace and healing between the North and South.
49. An Advocate for Veterans
- Lincoln pushed for better care and support for soldiers and their families, a practice that continues today.
50. Memorialized as an American Icon
- The Lincoln Memorial stands as a tribute to his vision for a united and free America, drawing millions of visitors each year.