President Abraham Lincoln

Born February 12, 1809 in Kentucky, Lincoln was a self-educated man who rose from humble beginnings to become the most powerful man in the nation. He became a lawyer and served one two-year term in the House of Representatives from 1846 to 1848. He returned to Illinois, where he eventually was nominated for the state Senate. He competed against Stephen Douglas in the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858. Although he lost that contest, he gained a heavy following, which would help carry him through the 1860 presidential election. Throughout his life and his presidency, Lincoln evolved, particularly on the issue of slavery. He left behind a legacy of strength and perseverance in the face of overwhelming difficulties.