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Abraham Lincoln was an American politician who served as the 16th President of the United States (1861 to 1865). He is best known for ending slavery and preserving the Union by overseeing the war effort during the American Civil War. His influence has been magnified by his powerful speaking ability; his Gettysburg Address is a classic of American history.

Nationality: American
Birth Date: 12 Feb 1809
Death Date: 15 Apr 1865
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The Emancipation Proclamation

The Emancipation Proclamation consists of two executive orders issued by United States President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. The first one, issued September 22, 1862, declared the freedom of all slaves in any state of the Confederate States of America that did not return to Union control by January 1, 1863. The second order, issued January 1, 1863, named ten specific states where it would apply. Lincoln issued the Executive Order by his authority as "Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy" under Article II, section 2 of the United States Constitution.

An Autobiographical Sketch by Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln enjoyed telling stories of his youth and early manhood, but he wrote very little about himself. The following is the longest statement he has set down anywhere about his own life. And he did this only at the earnest request of a fellow citizen in Illinois, Mr. Fell.

The Gettysburg Address

Speech given by Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863 at the dedication of the Gettysburg National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

The Second Inaugural Address of President Abraham Lincoln, Washington, D.C., March 4, 1865

Abraham Lincoln delivered his second inaugural address on March 4, 1865, during his inauguration at the start of his second term as President of the United States.