Introduction:
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is known worldwide for his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery. However, there are many interesting insights about Lincoln that may not be as well-known. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about this iconic figure in American history.
Fact 1: Lincoln Was a Skilled Wrestler
Many people are surprised to learn that Abraham Lincoln was a talented wrestler in his youth. He was known for his strength and agility, often participating in matches with other local men. In fact, Lincoln only lost one recorded wrestling match out of approximately 300.
Fact 2: Lincoln Was a Self-Taught Lawyer
Despite having very little formal education, Lincoln was able to teach himself law and passed the bar exam in 1836. He went on to have a successful legal career before entering politics.
Fact 3: Lincoln Was the Tallest US President
At 6 feet 4 inches tall, Abraham Lincoln holds the title of the tallest President in US history. His height often made him stand out in a crowd, both literally and figuratively.
Fact 4: Lincoln Created the Secret Service the Day He Was Assassinated
Ironically, Abraham Lincoln established the Secret Service on the very day of his assassination in 1865. Originally, the agency’s primary focus was to combat counterfeit currency.
Fact 5: Lincoln Held a Patent
In 1849, Lincoln received a patent for a device to lift boats over shoals and other obstacles in a river. This is the only patent ever granted to a President of the United States.
Fact 6: Lincoln was a Cat Lover
Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary Todd were known to be fond of cats and had several as pets in the White House. Lincoln was once quoted as saying, “I am fond of pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.”
Fact 7: Lincoln Was a Compulsive Storyteller
Known for his folksy humor, Lincoln was frequently seen regaling friends and colleagues with humorous stories and anecdotes. These stories were often used as a way to break the tension during difficult political discussions.
Fact 8: Lincoln Was Targeted by Assassins Before His Presidency
Even before he took office, Lincoln faced multiple assassination attempts. The first attempt was foiled in Baltimore in February 1861, and another was thwarted in 1864.
Fact 9: Lincoln Had a Close Relationship with Frederick Douglass
Despite their different backgrounds, Lincoln and famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass formed a close friendship during the Civil War. Douglass often praised Lincoln’s leadership and commitment to ending slavery.
Fact 10: Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address was Only 272 Words
One of the most famous speeches in American history, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address was delivered in just over two minutes and contained only 272 words. Despite its brevity, the speech remains a powerful and moving testament to the sacrifices made during the Civil War.
Fact 11: Lincoln’s Favorite Food was Oysters
Abraham Lincoln was known to have a love for oysters and would frequently enjoy them as a meal. Oysters were a popular food choice during Lincoln’s time, and he was known to indulge in them whenever possible.
Fact 12: Lincoln Signed the Emancipation Proclamation
In 1863, Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all slaves in Confederate-held territory to be free. This was a pivotal moment in the fight against slavery and solidified Lincoln’s legacy as the “Great Emancipator.”
Fact 13: Lincoln’s Son Was Saved by John Wilkes Booth’s Brother
Ironically, on the same night that John Wilkes Booth assassinated Abraham Lincoln, his brother, Edwin Booth, saved Lincoln’s son, Robert, from a potentially deadly accident on a train platform. This strange twist of fate has puzzled historians for years.
Fact 14: Lincoln Dreamed of His Own Death
Just days before his assassination, Lincoln reportedly dreamt of his own death. In the dream, he saw a funeral at the White House, which he believed foretold his fate.
Fact 15: Lincoln’s Last Words Were About the Future
As he lay dying from the assassin’s bullet, Abraham Lincoln’s final words were a hopeful prediction for the future. He said, “It is the eternal struggle between these two principles - right and wrong – throughout the world. They are the two principles that have stood face to face from the beginning of time and will ever continue to struggle.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln’s life was filled with fascinating facts and insights that shed light on his character and legacy. From his humble beginnings to his tragic end, Lincoln’s story captivates and inspires millions around the world. By uncovering these 15 intriguing facts about Lincoln, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the man behind the legend and the impact he had on American history.
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