Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was a pivotal figure in American history. Born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Kentucky, Lincoln rose from humble beginnings to lead the nation through its most tumultuous period, the American Civil War. His life was marked by significant events, milestones, and periods that shaped his career and legacy. Here is a timeline of his life, highlighting key moments from his birth to his assassination in 1865.
Main Milestones
February 12, 1809
Birth of Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln was born in a log cabin in Kentucky to Thomas and Nancy Lincoln. He was the second child, with an older sister named Sarah.
Fall, 1816
Move to Indiana
The Lincoln family moved to Indiana, where they faced the challenges of frontier life. This period was crucial in shaping Lincoln's early life and education.
1832-1836
Early Political Career
Lincoln ran for the Illinois General Assembly in 1832 but lost. However, he was elected in 1834 and re-elected in 1836, marking the beginning of his political career.
1837
Admission to the Illinois Bar
Lincoln was admitted to the Illinois Bar and began practicing law in Springfield, Illinois. This marked a significant milestone in his legal career.
1842-1844
Marriage and Family
Lincoln married Mary Todd on November 4, 1842. Their first son, Robert Todd Lincoln, was born the following year. This period also saw Lincoln setting up his own law practice with William Herndon as his partner.
1858
Lincoln-Douglas Debates
Lincoln engaged in a series of seven debates with Stephen Douglas, which gained him national attention and set the stage for his presidential campaign.
May 18, 1860
Nomination for President
Lincoln was nominated for President at the Republican National Convention in Chicago, Illinois. This marked a significant turning point in his political career.
November 6, 1860
Election as President
Lincoln was elected the 16th President of the United States, receiving 180 of 303 electoral votes and about 40 percent of the popular vote in a five-way election.
April 12, 1861
Start of the Civil War
Confederate artillery opened fire on Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, marking the beginning of the American Civil War. Lincoln called for 75,000 volunteers to quell the rebellion.
January 1, 1863
Emancipation Proclamation
Lincoln issued the final Emancipation Proclamation, freeing all enslaved people in territories held by Confederates. This was a pivotal moment in the fight against slavery.
April 14-15, 1865
Assassination
Lincoln was shot while attending a play at Ford’s Theater. He died the following morning at 7:22 am, marking the end of his life and presidency.
