Many students and others in the United States rejoice for the three-day weekend that comes each February with Presidents’ Day. But how often do we pause to consider the men behind that day off? One of these historical giants is none other than Abraham Lincoln.
Born February 12, 1809 in Kentucky, Abraham had a tough life from the beginning. His mother died when he was only nine years old, and his father worked him very hard. Luckily, Abraham was soon blessed with a wonderful stepmother who encouraged him to read. And read he did! The boy willing to walk for miles to borrow a book eventually taught himself the practice of law simply through his reading.
Lincoln was a hard worker, but he was an even better family man. He and his wife, Mary Todd, had four children. Only one of them survived into his adult years. The death of one son, Willie, was particularly devastating to Abraham and the family.
Lincoln’s practical and moral stance against slavery pushed him into national politics and eventually the presidency. Soon after his election, the Civil War broke out. Lincoln worked quickly and tirelessly to help the cause of the Union army and publishing the Emancipation Proclamation to free all slaves in America. He did all this with great opposition even from his own political party.
The Civil War was America’s bloodiest war, and things didn’t look promising for the North at first. Perhaps Lincoln’s experiences with death were what gave him such great empathy for the soldiers; he made visits to many wounded men and did all he could to boost the low morale.
Lincoln also inspired many northerners in general with his most famous speech, the Gettysburg Address. Only 272 words long, the speech quoted the Declaration of Independence and reminded Americans that “all men are created equal”. The short but effective speech changed the direction of the Union’s fight and helped lead to the North winning the war in 1865.
Unlike many other northern politicians, Lincoln had little desire for retribution from the South—he preferred to focus on reuniting the North and South. However, before much of a political battle could warm up, Lincoln was halted in his tracks. A confederate sympathizer named John Wilkes Booth shot Lincoln while he was attending a performance at the Ford Theater.
Lincoln’s assassination cast a pall over much of the country. But despite his early death, he had accomplished more than most or all of the presidents before him. Even today, he is one of history’s most respected presidents due to his wisdom, fortitude, and most of all, integrity.
This Presidents’ Day, take a moment to remember and honor Abraham Lincoln and presidents like him. Look for men and women who can lead like he did. Most of all, join with Living Scriptures in thanking God for leaders like Abraham Lincoln.
Historical details from this article were found here.
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