Abraham Lincoln was the 16th U.S. President, leading the nation during the difficult Civil War from 1861 to 1865. Born in a log cabin, he became the tallest U.S. president at 6'4". Learn how his hard work led to huge decisions that kept America united!
Have you ever heard of a president who was so tall he needed an extra-tall hat to match? Get ready to meet one of America's most famous leaders: Abraham Lincoln!
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, led the country during one of its toughest times, the Civil War. He was born on February 12, 1809, in a tiny one-room log cabin in Kentucky. Despite growing up with very little schooling—he only attended school for less than a year—he showed that hard work and dedication can lead to amazing things! He taught himself to read and study, eventually becoming a successful lawyer and a brilliant speaker. Honest Abe, as he was often called, would go on to guide the entire nation!
Mira says:
"Wow, learning that he taught himself law by reading books shows just how much he wanted to succeed! It’s like being a self-made superhero of history!"
What Was the Big Problem During Lincoln's Time?
When Abraham Lincoln became president in 1861, the United States was actually splitting into two parts! This huge fight was called the Civil War.
The main disagreement was about slavery. Some states in the South wanted to keep the practice of slavery, where people were treated as property. Lincoln and the North believed that slavery was wrong and that the country needed to stay united as one nation.
Lincoln’s most important job as president was to keep the United States—the Union—together. It was a long, difficult, and very sad war.
Mind-Blowing Fact!
Abraham Lincoln was so tall that people sometimes kept important papers tucked safely inside his extra-tall stovepipe hat! What a unique pocket!
Abraham Lincoln by the Numbers
President Lincoln stood out, not just because of his important job, but because of his size! He was the tallest president the United States has ever had. That means he towered over most of the people he met.
He was known for his long legs and lean build. Even though he looked commanding, some people said his speaking voice was surprisingly high-pitched—but his powerful words always made people listen!
(193 cm)
During the Civil War
Out of nearly 300 matches!
How Did Lincoln Help End Slavery?
One of Abraham Lincoln's greatest acts was using his presidential power to strike a huge blow against slavery. He knew that for the U.S. to truly be a land of the free, everyone needed to be free.
He used his leadership to push for major changes that changed America forever for kids and adults alike!
The Famous Proclamation
On January 1, 1863, Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This important document declared that slaves in the states still fighting against the Union were now free.
This changed the goal of the Civil War—it was now officially about *both* saving the country AND freeing enslaved people. This paved the way for the complete end of slavery!
💡 Did You Know?
Did you know that Lincoln signed the bill to create the Secret Service—the group that protects U.S. presidents today—on the very same day he was assassinated, April 14, 1865?
🎯 Quick Quiz!
What famous nickname did Abraham Lincoln earn because he was known for his honesty?
More Great Things Lincoln Did for America
Lincoln didn't stop at freeing people; he helped create laws that helped the country grow and offered chances for people to build new lives.
He had a vision for a stronger, fairer America, and his words continue to inspire us today. For kids learning history, Lincoln shows that rising from humble beginnings to do great things is possible!
- He delivered the Gettysburg Address, a short but powerful speech about equality and freedom.
- He signed the Homestead Act (1862), which helped many people, including women and minorities, get land to live on and farm.
- He helped create the National Banking Act (1863), which set up the national banking system and the standardized U.S. dollar we use now!
- He is one of only four presidents carved into the massive Mount Rushmore monument in South Dakota!
Sadly, just days after the Civil War ended, President Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre on April 14, 1865. He passed away the next morning. Though his life was cut short, his work to keep the country together and end slavery made him one of the most revered presidents in U.S. history.
Questions Kids Ask About American History
Keep Exploring American History!
From a humble log cabin to the White House, Abraham Lincoln’s story proves that with courage and strong morals, you can make a huge difference. Keep learning about the leaders who shaped America, and remember the lessons of unity and freedom he taught us!
