15 Intimate Abraham Lincoln Facts

Introduction:

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is one of the most iconic figures in American history. Known for his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery, Lincoln’s life was full of interesting and intimate details that are not commonly known. In this article, we will delve into 15 intimate Abraham Lincoln facts that will give you a new perspective on this legendary president.

Fact 1: Lincoln Was a Skilled Wrestler

Despite his tall, lean frame, Abraham Lincoln was known for his strength and wrestling skills. He competed in numerous wrestling matches throughout his life and was only defeated once in approximately 300 matches.

Fact 2: Lincoln’s Dog Fido

One of Lincoln’s beloved pets was a dog named Fido. Fido accompanied Lincoln on his daily walks and was known for his loyalty to the president. Unfortunately, Fido was not able to join the family in the White House due to concerns about his safety.

Fact 3: Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address

Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address, delivered in just over two minutes, is considered one of the greatest speeches in American history. Despite its brevity, the speech encapsulated the principles of democracy and freedom.

Fact 4: Lincoln’s Hat

Lincoln was rarely seen without his iconic top hat, which he used to store important documents and notes. The hat became a symbol of his presidency and is now displayed at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

Fact 5: Lincoln’s Height

Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall, Lincoln was the tallest president in U.S. history. His height made him a striking figure and earned him the nickname “Abraham Lincoln, the Giant President.”

Fact 6: Lincoln’s Nickname

In addition to being called the “Giant President,” Lincoln was also known as “Honest Abe.” This nickname originated from his reputation for honesty and integrity in both his personal and political life.

Fact 7: Lincoln’s Hatred of War

Despite being remembered as a wartime president, Lincoln despised war and its brutalities. He once said, “I have always hated war, and I shall continue to do so until my dying day.”

Fact 8: Lincoln’s Love of Shakespeare

Lincoln was an avid reader and particularly admired the works of William Shakespeare. He often quoted Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets in his speeches and conversations.

Fact 9: Lincoln’s Humor

Lincoln had a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor. He was known for telling jokes and anecdotes to lighten the mood during tense situations, earning him the reputation of being a great storyteller.

Fact 10: Lincoln’s Beard

Lincoln was the first U.S. president to sport a full beard. He grew his famous beard at the suggestion of an 11-year-old girl named Grace Bedell, who wrote to him during his presidential campaign.

Fact 11: Lincoln’s Favorite Food

Lincoln’s favorite food was said to be apples. He enjoyed snacking on fresh apples and often carried them in his pockets for a quick and healthy snack.

Fact 12: Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation

One of Lincoln’s most significant achievements as president was the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared all slaves in Confederate-held territories to be free. This proclamation paved the way for the abolition of slavery in the United States.

Fact 13: Lincoln’s Assassination

Tragically, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865. His death shocked the nation and plunged the country into mourning. Lincoln’s legacy as a unifier and emancipator lives on to this day.

Fact 14: Lincoln’s Legacy

Abraham Lincoln’s legacy as the “Great Emancipator” and the savior of the Union endures in American history. His leadership during the Civil War and his commitment to equality and justice continue to inspire generations of Americans.

Fact 15: Lincoln’s Last Words

In his final moments, Abraham Lincoln uttered the words, “Now he belongs to the ages.” These poignant words captured the spirit of a man whose impact on American history will never be forgotten.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln was a remarkable leader whose life was filled with fascinating details and intimate facts. From his wrestling skills to his love of Shakespeare, Lincoln’s legacy continues to captivate and inspire people around the world. By exploring these 15 intimate facts about Abraham Lincoln, we gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend and the enduring impact he had on the United States and the world.