abraham lincoln biography movie

• The Very Best Movies About Abraham Lincoln
• The Sad Life of Mary Todd Lincoln
• Things to Know About Lincoln's Assassination
• Actors Who Have Played Lincoln
• Surprising and Humanizing Facts About Lincoln
• The Confederacy's Response to the Assassination
• The Contents of His Pockets When He Died
• But How Was His Love Life?
• The Hunt for John Wilkes Booth
• Moving Facts About His Life
• Just After the Assassination
• Ironic Quotes from Lincoln's Hater Contemporaries
• Assassination Conspiracies
• That Urban Legend About JFK

The 15+ Best Abraham Lincoln Movies, Ranked

Embark on a cinematic journey with the best movies about Abraham Lincoln, where each film is a window into the life of one of America's most storied presidents. This curated list is a tribute to the man behind the legend, featuring everything from detailed biopics to imaginative narratives that bring the past to life. Whether you're streaming a Lincoln movie from the comfort of your home or catching a Lincoln film at a theater, the power of these stories resonates deeply with audiences.

These movies about Abe Lincoln aren't just for history buffs; they're for anyone who appreciates the art of filmmaking and the impact of a well-told story. With titles ranging from the critically acclaimed Lincoln to the intriguing The Lincoln Conspiracy Movie , there's a richness to explore. And for those who prefer factual storytelling, the Abraham Lincoln documentary options provide a glimpse into the reality of his era.

As you delve into these films about Abraham Lincoln, your votes help to shape the rankings, ensuring that the most compelling narratives rise to the top. So, join in—discover, vote, and contribute to a list that's as dynamic and enduring as Lincoln's legacy itself.

Helmed by master director Steven Spielberg, Lincoln  presents an enthralling portrayal of the 16th President's tumultuous final months in office while he fought to bring an end to the Civil War and eradicate slavery. Featuring the talents of the incomparable Daniel Day-Lewis, whose immersive portrayal of Abraham Lincoln garnered him an Academy Award for Best Actor, this powerful film delves into the complexities of America's historic transition. With Sally Field's riveting performance as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones ' striking portrayal of Thaddeus Stevens, Lincoln  is a captivating masterpiece that befits the legacy of one of history's greatest icons.

• # 128 of 264 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
• # 84 of 675 on The Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
• # 11 of 59 on The Best Movies Based on Non-Fiction Books

Abe Lincoln in Illinois

Delving into the life of Abraham Lincoln before his infamous presidency, Abe Lincoln in Illinois  unfolds a compelling narrative anchored by Raymond Massey's impeccable portrayal of the young lawyer-turned-politician. Laden with powerful speeches, emotive scenes, and Ruth Gordon's captivating representation of Mary Todd Lincoln, this evocative film compels the audience to peer into the heart and soul of one of America's most venerated historical figures. Nominated for two Academy Awards, this 1940 gem solidifies its place in the annals of Lincoln-inspired cinema.

Gore Vidal's Lincoln

Based on the esteemed writer's eponymous novel, Gore Vidal's Lincoln  is an epic miniseries that weaves a complex tapestry of the enigmatic President's life, both inside and outside the White House. With an alluring performance from Sam Waterston, who deftly captures the essence of Lincoln, and a resolute Mary Tyler Moore as Mary Todd Lincoln, this TV adaptation brings renewed depth and insight to the story of America's greatest leader. As it delves into previously veiled territory, this critically acclaimed miniseries invites viewers to re-examine their perceptions of the cherished President.

Young Mr. Lincoln

Brought to the silver screen by iconic director John Ford, Young Mr. Lincoln  chronicles the formative years of the revered American President, through the eyes of an ambitious and tenacious Henry Fonda. This classic 1939 drama charts the early legal career of Abraham Lincoln, as Fonda masterfully captures the nuances of Lincoln's innate intelligence and rugged determination. Painted with Ford's silver screen expertise, Young Mr. Lincoln  enshrines itself in the hearts of its audience as a captivating, time-honored tribute to the legendary figure.

• # 79 of 165 on The Best Political Films Of All Time
• # 53 of 65 on The Most Patriotic Movies Of All Time
• # 13 of 66 on The 60+ Best Movies About The President

The Conspirator

Robert Redford's magnificent period piece, The Conspirator , delves into the conspiracy behind the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and the controversial trial of Mary Surratt (Robin Wright), the lone female conspirator. Focusing on the moral dilemma of Union war hero Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy) as he is tasked with defending the enigmatic Surratt, this eye-opening film casts light upon the oft-forgotten remnants of America's already-tumultuous history. As a riveting courtroom drama and a piece of historical reflection, The Conspirator  offers a refreshingly unique perspective on the nation's most devastating loss.

• Abraham Lincoln

D.W. Griffith's 1930 biographical film, Abraham Lincoln , traces the rise of America's greatest President from his humble rural beginnings to his tragic assassination. Walter Huston's enthralling portrayal highlights Lincoln's statesmanship, iron will, and unwavering commitment to the nation. Griffth's silent-era expertise and artistic vision breathe life into this captivating tribute, creating an enduring masterpiece that celebrates the legendary historical figure.

• # 47 of 51 on The 50+ Best Movies In Public Domain
• # 19 of 22 on The Best President Biopics
• # 34 of 87 on The 85+ Best Movies of 1930

The Day Lincoln Was Shot

The Day Lincoln Was Shot  details the harrowing events leading up to the tragic assassination of President Abraham Lincoln by actor-turned-conspirator John Wilkes Booth. Starring Lance Henriksen as the indefatigable leader and Rob Morrow as his menacing assailant, this TV movie presents a chilling and intimate exploration of a nation's darkest day. With keen historical insight and gripping suspense, The Day Lincoln Was Shot  leaves an indelible impression upon its audience.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter

Daring to reimagine history with a fantastical twist, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter  brings a unique fusion of the macabre and iconic statesmanship to the fore. Through Benjamin Walker's portrayal of Lincoln as both President and fearless vampire slayer, this action-packed fantasy unfolds a thrilling, fantastical narrative against an intricate historical canvas. A thrilling departure from traditional biographical films, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter  stands tall as a genre-bending spectacle, unafraid to explore new perspectives on the legend of Lincoln.

Saving Lincoln

Focusing on the little-known friendship between Abraham Lincoln and Ward Hill Lamon, Saving Lincoln  explores the President's life through the eyes of his loyal friend and confidante. Chronicles of attempted assassination plots paint a vivid picture of the danger surrounding Lincoln, while Tom Amandes' portrayal of the steadfast leader enchants audiences with its vulnerability and authority. A heartwarming exploration of friendship amidst political upheaval, Saving Lincoln  delivers a unique and touching perspective on the legendary figure.

Killing Lincoln

In Killing Lincoln , a riveting National Geographic film, viewers are transported into the final days of President Abraham Lincoln's life and the turbulent aftermath of his assassination. Narrated by the masterful Tom Hanks, this docudrama juxtaposes the lives of Lincoln and his assassin John Wilkes Booth, capturing the heart-wrenching tension that gripped a nation. Encompassing expert historical insights and dramatic reenactments, Killing Lincoln  breathes new life into the tragic events surrounding the beloved President's untimely death.

A groundbreaking exploration of the timeless story of America's 16th President, Abraham Lincoln  benefits from the burgeoning innovations of the Phonofilm sound-on-film process, breathing life into the tale through director J. Searle Dawley's deft touch. Based on John Drinkwater's widely acclaimed 1918 play, the film stars Frank McGlynn Sr. as the iconic Lincoln, offering a compelling portrayal that earned him praise both on Broadway and within the nascent realm of cinema. As an embodiment of Lincoln's indomitable spirit and an unyielding testament to the power of theatre, Abraham Lincoln  stands tall as a pioneering achievement in the sphere of early motion pictures.

The Face of Lincoln

As an intriguing ode to the life and legacy of America's 16th President, The Face of Lincoln  combines artistic appreciation with biographical insight. Master sculptor Merrell Gage conveys the hardships and achievements that shaped Lincoln's character as he meticulously crafts the President's likeness in clay. Demonstrating the profound impact of Lincoln's life on both art and history, The Face of Lincoln  allows audiences to explore the spirit of an extraordinary leader through an enchanting creative medium.

The Better Angels

Capturing the humble beginnings and quiet resilience of a young Abraham Lincoln, The Better Angels  invites audiences to explore the future President's formative years in rural Indiana. Director A.J. Edwards' poetic and visually stunning film showcases a raw and emotive performance by Braydon Denney, who embodies the spirit of Lincoln's early life. With its evocative storytelling and richly textured cinematography, The Better Angels  shines a light on the origins of greatness in an iconic historical figure.

The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln

Blending documentary elements with classic storytelling, The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln  offers an authentic and engaging portrayal of the 16th President's life. An evocative narration and compelling renditions of pivotal moments from Lincoln's life acquaint modern audiences with the hardships, triumphs, and moral resolve that defined the revered leader. Through this fresh lens, The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln  celebrates the inexorable spirit of a man who changed the course of history.

The Lincoln Conspiracy

Unraveling the web of intrigue surrounding President Abraham Lincoln's assassination, The Lincoln Conspiracy  delves into the heart of political conspiracies and clandestine plots. Amidst the whirlwind of tension and subterfuge, this film scrutinizes the sinister forces that contributed to the death of the revered leader. As a captivating and thrilling dissection of one of history's most infamous moments, The Lincoln Conspiracy  challenges audiences to reconsider the events leading to that fateful night at Ford's Theatre.

Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies

In a wildly imaginative twist on conventional biopics, Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies  presents a larger-than-life version of the beloved President who valiantly combats the undead during the Civil War. Starring the versatile Bill Oberst Jr., this film delivers a thrilling and outlandish portrayal of Lincoln, as he fearlessly faces supernatural foes while seeking to save a divided nation. With its action-packed sequences and unique premise, Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies  reimagines history through an unconventional and thoroughly entertaining lens.

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Exploring the life and end Abraham Lincoln, the tall lawyer in the top hat who served as the 16th President of the United States from March 1861 until he was taken out by an enemy in April 1865.

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, a saintly wheeler-dealer.

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I've rarely been more aware than during Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln" that Abraham Lincoln was a plain-spoken, practical, down-to-earth man from the farmlands of Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois. He had less than a year of formal education and taught himself through his hungry reading of great books. I still recall from a childhood book the image of him taking a piece of charcoal and working out mathematics by writing on the back of a shovel.

Lincoln lacked social polish but he had great intelligence and knowledge of human nature. The hallmark of the man, performed so powerfully by Daniel Day-Lewis in "Lincoln," is calm self-confidence, patience and a willingness to play politics in a realistic way. The film focuses on the final months of Lincoln's life, including the passage of the 13th Amendment ending slavery, the surrender of the Confederacy and his assassination. Rarely has a film attended more carefully to the details of politics.

Lincoln believed slavery was immoral, but he also considered the 13th Amendment a masterstroke in cutting away the financial foundations of the Confederacy. In the film, the passage of the amendment is guided by William Seward ( David Strathairn ), his secretary of state, and by Rep. Thaddeus Stevens ( Tommy Lee Jones ), the most powerful abolitionist in the House. Neither these nor any other performances in the film depend on self-conscious histrionics; Jones in particular portrays a crafty codger with some secret hiding places in his heart.

The capital city of Washington is portrayed here as roughshod gathering of politicians on the make. The images by Janusz Kaminski , Spielberg's frequent cinematographer, use earth tones and muted indoor lighting. The White House is less a temple of state than a gathering place for wheelers and dealers. This ambience reflects the descriptions in Gore Vidal's historical novel "Lincoln," although the political and personal details in Tony Kushner's concise, revealing dialogue is based on "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln" by Doris Kearns Goodwin. The book is well-titled. This is a film not about an icon of history, but about a president who was scorned by some of his political opponents as just a hayseed from the backwoods.

Lincoln is not above political vote buying. He offers jobs, promotions, titles and pork barrel spending. He isn't even slightly reluctant to employ the low-handed tactics of his chief negotiators (Tim Blake Nelson , James Spader , John Hawkes ). That's how the game is played, and indeed we may be reminded of the arm-bending used to pass the civil rights legislation by Lyndon B. Johnson, the subject of another biography by Goodwin.

Daniel Day-Lewis, who has a lock on an Oscar nomination, modulates Lincoln. He is soft-spoken, a little hunched, exhausted after the years of war, concerned that no more troops die. He communicates through stories and parables. At his side is his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln ( Sally Field , typically sturdy and spunky), who is sometimes seen as a social climber but here is focused as wife and mother. She has already lost one son in the war and fears to lose the other. This boy, Robert Todd Lincoln ( Joseph Gordon-Levitt ), refuses the privileges of family.

There are some battlefields in "Lincoln" but the only battle scene is at the opening, when the words of the Gettysburg Address are spoken with the greatest possible impact, and not by Lincoln. Kushner also smoothly weaves the wording of the 13th Amendment into the film without making it sound like an obligatory history lesson.

The film ends soon after Lincoln's assassination. I suppose audiences will expect that to be included. There is an earlier shot, when it could have ended, of President Lincoln walking away from the camera after his amendment has been passed. The rest belongs to history.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

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Film credits.

Lincoln (2012)

Rated PG-13 for an intense scene of war violence, some images of carnage and brief strong language

149 minutes

Daniel Day-Lewis as Lincoln

Tommy Lee Jones as Stevens

Sally Field as Mary Todd

David Strathairn as Seward

Directed by

• Steven Spielberg
• Tony Kushner

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Rent Lincoln on Prime Video, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video.

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Daniel Day-Lewis characteristically delivers in this witty, dignified portrait that immerses the audience in its world and entertains even as it informs.

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Steven Spielberg

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Abraham Lincoln

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The 10 Best Films About Abraham Lincoln

Posted: February 26, 2024 | Last updated: February 26, 2024

This list takes us through the life and legacy of one of America’s most revered figures, offering a fascinating insight into the man’s life and legacy.

From compelling biopics to insightful historical dramas, each film on this list delves into Lincoln’s remarkable life, delving into his leadership, struggles, and lasting impact. Learn about one of history’s most enduring figures from these cinematic masterpieces.

The acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg directs Lincoln , a gripping look at the 16th President as he struggles to end the Civil War and abolish slavery during his last months in office. In this impactful movie, Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Abraham Lincoln, who won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal. With Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens, Lincoln stands as a masterful tribute to one of history’s most noteworthy figures.

2. The Conspirator

In Robert Redford’s remarkable historical drama, The Conspirator , the complex web of intrigue surrounding President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination and the controversial trial of Mary Surratt (Robin Wright), the only female conspirator, is vividly shown. As Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy) defends the intriguing Surratt, he faces a profound moral dilemma. The Conspirator sheds light on often-overlooked aspects of America’s turbulent past, offering a new perspective on one of America’s most tragic events.

3. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter

With Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter , Abraham Lincoln is reimagined as a fearless vampire slayer, breaking from conventional historical narratives. Combined with action-packed sequences with historical depth, Benjamin Walker’s portrayal of Lincoln as both President and vampire hunter adds a thrilling twist to the story. Taking a bold departure from traditional biographical films, this genre-bending spectacle explores Lincoln’s legend from new perspectives.

4. Young Mr. Lincoln

A classic film, Young Mr. Lincoln , is directed by the legendary John Ford and depicts the early years of the beloved American president. In this timeless drama from 1939, Fonda effortlessly portrays Lincoln’s intelligence and unwavering resolve as he embarks upon his early legal career. In “Young Mr. Lincoln,” Ford shows off his exceptional cinematic skills, cementing it as a timeless, captivating tribute.

5. Abe Lincoln in Illinois

A captivating story about Abraham Lincoln’s early years before becoming president, Abe Lincoln in Illinois stars Raymond Massey as the young lawyer-turned-politician. This film is full of stirring speeches, touching moments, and Ruth Gordon’s compelling portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln. Nominated for two Academy Awards, this 1940 masterpiece cements its legacy in the realm of Lincoln-inspired cinema.

6. The Better Angels

The Better Angels shows Abraham Lincoln’s childhood and path to greatness, highlighting his upbringing in rural Indiana. Featuring a moving performance by Braydon Denney, who portrays a young Lincoln’s resilience and determination, it’s an emotionally moving film directed by A.J. Edwards. The Better Angels tells the story of an influential historical figure’s formative years and the origins of his remarkable character through poetic storytelling and gorgeous cinematography.

7. Abraham Lincoln

From his humble origins to his untimely death, D.W. Griffith’s 1930 biopic Abraham Lincoln tells the story of America’s revered leader in compelling detail. With Walter Huston’s performance, Lincoln’s leadership, determination, and devotion are brought to life. As a result of Griffith’s mastery of silent films and his artistic vision, the movie has a timeless quality that will live on forever.

8. Saving Lincoln

As seen through the lens of Lincoln’s devoted friend and confidante, Saving Lincoln gives a fresh take on the president. In the film, Tom Amandes portrays Lincoln in a way that is both vulnerable and strong through the recounting of assassination attempts, which vividly depict the perilous circumstances surrounding his life. Providing a poignant and insightful glimpse into Lincoln’s life, Saving Lincoln examines friendship amid political turmoil.

9. The Lincoln Conspiracy

A movie about political conspiracies and covert schemes surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, The Lincoln Conspiracy unravels the intricate web of deception surrounding Lincoln’s assassination. Amidst the atmosphere of tension and secrecy, the film reveals details of the dark forces at play in the demise of the esteemed leader. A gripping and suspenseful look at a pivotal moment in history, “The Lincoln Conspiracy” asks viewers to reevaluate what led up to the tragedy at Ford’s Theatre.

10. Abraham Lincoln

With the help of Phonofilm sound-on-film technology, Abraham Lincoln brings the story of America’s 16th President to life under the skilled direction of J. Searle Dawley. In an adaptation from John Drinkwater’s acclaimed 1918 play, Frank McGlynn Sr. plays Lincoln in a powerful performance that earned him acclaim both on Broadway and in the world of film. Serving as a testament to Lincoln’s unwavering resolve and the transformative power of theater, Abraham Lincoln stands as a groundbreaking achievement in the early days of motion pictures.

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Movie Interviews

We ask a historian: just how accurate is 'lincoln'.

Lincoln biographer Ronald White lauds the accuracy of Daniel Day-Lewis' depiction of the 16th president. DreamWorks hide caption

A great many families going to the movies over this Thanksgiving weekend will probably see Lincoln , Steven Spielberg's new film starring Daniel Day-Lewis and an impressive cast.

Based on a biography by Doris Kearns Goodwin, but scripted by playwright and screenwriter Tony Kushner, it's been very well-reviewed, but here's a question: How true to history is it?

Ronald White, author of A. Lincoln: A Biography , tells NPR's Linda Wertheimer that if a ninth-grader were to write a school paper based on the film, she'd find that its "dramatic core" is basically on target.

Interview Highlights

On the film's overall historical correctness

"The dramatic core of this remarkable four months of trying to pass the 13th Amendment [which banned slavery] is true. Is every word true? No. Did Lincoln say, 'And to unborn generations ...'? No. But this is not a documentary. And so I think the delicate balance or blend between history and dramatic art comes off quite well."

On William Seward and the three lobbyists he employs

"I think the movie is wanting in one way to disabuse us of the sense that Lincoln is this high-minded idealist who wouldn't stoop to using the machine to get votes. And [Secretary of State] Seward — remember, he was Lincoln's chief rival for the Republican nomination for president — is a shrewd politician. He's in this with Lincoln; he's not an unwilling co-conspirator. And he's willing to do things sort of outside the box, that Lincoln perhaps can't do. I doubt that Lincoln actually met these three men, but Seward delivers the votes [on the 13th Amendment] in a variety of ways."

On the over-the-top drama of House debates in the film

"You don't hear anything in the House anymore; you only hear someone giving an address for C-SPAN. I mean, one of the wonderful parts of the movie is that all of them are there, they're listening; some of them are going to be persuaded. It suggests an earlier time of a much more active Congress."

On radical Republican leader Thaddeus Stevens, played as a hero by Tommy Lee Jones in Lincoln , but as a villain in 1942's Tennessee Johnson

"The earlier movie ... was produced before the civil rights movement, or in the Gone With the Wind movement, when yes, abolitionists were evil guys. Now, since the civil rights movement, we see them as courageous leaders advocating rights for African-Americans, and so we have a different viewpoint on Thaddeus Stevens. I think the movie gets it right here."

On Kate Maser's New York Times op-ed, which criticized the film for keeping black people quietly in the background

"I think that's a point well taken. And what the audience doesn't fully understand, in the final scene — almost the final scene — where suddenly African-Americans arrive in the balcony as the final vote is to be taken, that one of those is Charles Douglass, the son of Frederick Douglass. Charles had fought in the famous Massachusetts 54th; he will write to his father after that climactic vote: 'Oh, Father, how wonderful it is. People were cheering, they were crying tears of joy.' So that had the potential for more black agency, but it doesn't come to full fruition in the film."

On whether freeing the slaves was the prime motive of Abraham Lincoln, as the film suggests

"I think we still don't understand, sadly, although historians have been telling us this for a generation — that slavery really was a cause of the war. However, Lincoln did start the war to save the Union; he did not start the war originally to free the slaves. But that became a purpose for him when he realized that he could no longer move forward without a true understanding of liberty and union. He ran in 1864 for re-election on the slogan 'Liberty and Union,' and so it becomes the second purpose of the Civil War."

On Daniel Day-Lewis

"I was very pleased with Daniel Day-Lewis' depiction of Lincoln. He does a delicate balance between the homely Lincoln — the homespun Lincoln — and the high Lincoln of the second inaugural address. He walks like Lincoln, the way he puts his feet down one at a time. He talks like Lincoln — not the baritone voice of Disneyland, but the high tenor voice. Daniel Day-Lewis studied Lincoln intensely, and what comes out is a very accurate depiction of the spirit of the man."

Abraham Lincoln

President Abraham Lincoln preserved the Union during the American Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing enslaved people.

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Abraham Lincoln was the 16 th president of the United States , serving from 1861 to 1865, and is regarded as one of America’s greatest heroes due to his roles in guiding the Union through the Civil War and working to emancipate enslaved people. His eloquent support of democracy and insistence that the Union was worth saving embody the ideals of self-government that all nations strive to achieve. In 1863, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed slaves across the Confederacy. Lincoln’s rise from humble beginnings to achieving the highest office in the land is a remarkable story, and his death is equally notably. He was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth in 1865, at age 56, as the country was slowly beginning to reunify following the war. Lincoln’s distinctively humane personality and incredible impact on the nation have endowed him with an enduring legacy.

FULL NAME: Abraham Lincoln BORN: February 12, 1809 DIED: April 15, 1865 BIRTHPLACE: Hodgenville, Kentucky SPOUSE: Mary Todd Lincoln (m. 1842) CHILDREN: Robert Todd Lincoln , Edward Baker Lincoln, William Wallace Lincoln, and Thomas “Tad” Lincoln ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Aquarius HEIGHT: 6 feet 4 inches

Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, to parents Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln in rural Hodgenville, Kentucky.

Thomas was a strong and determined pioneer who found a moderate level of prosperity and was well respected in the community. The couple had two other children: Lincoln’s older sister, Sarah, and younger brother, Thomas, who died in infancy. His death wasn’t the only tragedy the family would endure.

In 1817, the Lincolns were forced to move from young Abraham’s Kentucky birthplace to Perry County, Indiana, due to a land dispute. In Indiana, the family “squatted” on public land to scrap out a living in a crude shelter, hunting game and farming a small plot. Lincoln’s father was eventually able to buy the land.

When Lincoln was 9 years old, his 34-year-old mother died of tremetol, more commonly known as milk sickness, on October 5, 1818. The event was devastating to the young boy, who grew more alienated from his father and quietly resented the hard work placed on him at an early age.

In December 1819, just over a year after his mother’s death, Lincoln’s father Thomas married Sarah Bush Johnston, a Kentucky widow with three children of her own. She was a strong and affectionate woman with whom Lincoln quickly bonded.

Although both his parents were most likely illiterate, Thomas’ new wife Sarah encouraged Lincoln to read. It was while growing into manhood that Lincoln received his formal education—an estimated total of 18 months—a few days or weeks at a time.

Reading material was in short supply in the Indiana wilderness. Neighbors recalled how Lincoln would walk for miles to borrow a book. He undoubtedly read the family Bible and probably other popular books at that time such as Robinson Crusoe, Pilgrim’s Progres s, and Aesop’s Fable s.

In March 1830, the family again migrated, this time to Macon County, Illinois. When his father moved the family again to Coles County, 22-year-old Lincoln struck out on his own, making a living in manual labor.

Lincoln was 6 feet 4 inches tall, rawboned and lanky yet muscular and physically strong. He spoke with a backwoods twang and walked with a long-striding gait. He was known for his skill in wielding an ax and early on made a living splitting wood for fire and rail fencing.

Young Lincoln eventually migrated to the small community of New Salem, Illinois, where over a period of years he worked as a shopkeeper, postmaster, and eventually general store owner. It was through working with the public that Lincoln acquired social skills and honed a storytelling talent that made him popular with the locals.

Not surprising given his imposing frame, Lincoln was an excellent wrestler and had only one recorded loss—to Hank Thompson in 1832—over a span of 12 years. A shopkeeper who employed Lincoln in New Salem, Illinois, reportedly arranged bouts for him as a way to promote the business. Lincoln notably beat a local champion named Jack Armstrong and became somewhat of a hero. (The National Wrestling Hall of Fame posthumously gave Lincoln its Outstanding American Award in 1992.)

When the Black Hawk War broke out in 1832 between the United States and Native Americans, the volunteers in the area elected Lincoln to be their captain. He saw no combat during this time, save for “a good many bloody struggles with the mosquitoes,” but was able to make several important political connections.

As he was starting his political career in the early 1830s, Lincoln decided to become a lawyer. He taught himself the law by reading William Blackstone’s Commentaries on the Laws of England . After being admitted to the bar in 1837, he moved to Springfield, Illinois, and began to practice in the John T. Stuart law firm.

In 1844, Lincoln partnered with William Herndon in the practice of law. Although the two had different jurisprudent styles, they developed a close professional and personal relationship.

Lincoln made a good living in his early years as a lawyer but found that Springfield alone didn’t offer enough work. So to supplement his income, he followed the court as it made its rounds on the circuit to the various county seats in Illinois.

On November 4, 1842, Lincoln wed Mary Todd , a high-spirited, well-educated woman from a distinguished Kentucky family. Although they were married until Lincoln’s death, their relationship had a history of instability.

When the couple became engaged in 1840, many of their friends and family couldn’t understand Mary’s attraction; at times, Lincoln questioned it himself. In 1841, the engagement was suddenly broken off, most likely at Lincoln’s initiative. Mary and Lincoln met later at a social function and eventually did get married.

The couple had four sons— Robert Todd , Edward Baker, William Wallace, and Thomas “Tad”—of whom only Robert survived to adulthood.

Before marrying Todd, Lincoln was involved with other potential matches. Around 1837, he purportedly met and became romantically involved with Anne Rutledge. Before they had a chance to be engaged, a wave of typhoid fever came over New Salem, and Anne died at age 22.

Her death was said to have left Lincoln severely depressed. However, several historians disagree on the extent of Lincoln’s relationship with Rutledge, and his level of sorrow at her death might be more the makings of legend.

About a year after the death of Rutledge, Lincoln courted Mary Owens. The two saw each other for a few months, and marriage was considered. But in time, Lincoln called off the match.

In 1834, Lincoln began his political career and was elected to the Illinois state legislature as a member of the Whig Party . More than a decade later, from 1847 to 1849, he served a single term in the U.S. House of Representatives. His foray into national politics seemed to be as unremarkable as it was brief. He was the lone Whig from Illinois, showing party loyalty but finding few political allies.

As a congressman, Lincoln used his term in office to speak out against the Mexican-American War and supported Zachary Taylor for president in 1848. His criticism of the war made him unpopular back home, and he decided not to run for second term. Instead, he returned to Springfield to practice law.

By the 1850s, the railroad industry was moving west, and Illinois found itself becoming a major hub for various companies. Lincoln served as a lobbyist for the Illinois Central Railroad as its company attorney.

Success in several court cases brought other business clients as well, including banks, insurance companies, and manufacturing firms. Lincoln also worked in some criminal trials.

In one case, a witness claimed that he could identify Lincoln’s client who was accused of murder, because of the intense light from a full moon. Lincoln referred to an almanac and proved that the night in question had been too dark for the witness to see anything clearly. His client was acquitted.

As a member of the Illinois state legislature, Lincoln supported the Whig politics of government-sponsored infrastructure and protective tariffs. This political understanding led him to formulate his early views on slavery, not so much as a moral wrong, but as an impediment to economic development.

In 1854, Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act , which repealed the Missouri Compromise , allowing individual states and territories to decide for themselves whether to allow slavery. The law provoked violent opposition in Kansas and Illinois, and it gave rise to today’s Republican Party .

This awakened Lincoln’s political zeal once again, and his views on slavery moved more toward moral indignation. Lincoln joined the Republican Party in 1856.

In 1857, the Supreme Court issued its controversial Dred Scott decision, declaring Black people were not citizens and had no inherent rights. Although Lincoln felt Black people weren’t equal to whites, he believed America’s founders intended that all men were created with certain inalienable rights.

Lincoln decided to challenge sitting U.S. Senator Stephen Douglas for his seat. In his nomination acceptance speech, he criticized Douglas, the Supreme Court , and President James Buchanan for promoting slavery then declared “a house divided cannot stand.”

During Lincoln’s 1858 U.S. Senate campaign against Douglas, he participated in seven debates held in different cities across Illinois. The two candidates didn’t disappoint, giving stirring debates on issues such as states’ rights and western expansion. But the central issue was slavery.

Newspapers intensely covered the debates, often times with partisan commentary. In the end, the state legislature elected Douglas, but the exposure vaulted Lincoln into national politics.

With his newly enhanced political profile, in 1860, political operatives in Illinois organized a campaign to support Lincoln for the presidency. On May 18, at the Republican National Convention in Chicago, Lincoln surpassed better-known candidates such as William Seward of New York and Salmon P. Chase of Ohio. Lincoln’s nomination was due, in part, to his moderate views on slavery, his support for improving the national infrastructure, and the protective tariff.

In the November 1860 general election, Lincoln faced his friend and rival Stephen Douglas, this time besting him in a four-way race that included John C. Breckinridge of the Northern Democrats and John Bell of the Constitution Party. Lincoln received not quite 40 percent of the popular vote but carried 180 of 303 Electoral College votes, thus winning the U.S. presidency. He grew his trademark beard after his election.

Lincoln’s Cabinet

Following his election to the presidency in 1860, Lincoln selected a strong cabinet composed of many of his political rivals, including William Seward, Salmon P. Chase, Edward Bates, and Edwin Stanton.

Formed out the adage “Hold your friends close and your enemies closer,” Lincoln’s cabinet became one of his strongest assets in his first term in office, and he would need them as the clouds of war gathered over the nation the following year.

Before Lincoln’s inauguration in March 1861, seven Southern states had seceded from the Union, and by April, the U.S. military installation Fort Sumter was under siege in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. In the early morning hours of April 12, 1861, the guns stationed to protect the harbor blazed toward the fort, signaling the start of the U.S. Civil War , America’s costliest and bloodiest war.

The newly President Lincoln responded to the crisis wielding powers as no other president before him: He distributed $2 million from the Treasury for war material without an appropriation from Congress; he called for 75,000 volunteers into military service without a declaration of war; and he suspended the writ of habeas corpus, allowing for the arrest and imprisonment of suspected Confederate States sympathizers without a warrant.

Crushing the rebellion would be difficult under any circumstances, but the Civil War, after decades of white-hot partisan politics, was especially onerous. From all directions, Lincoln faced disparagement and defiance. He was often at odds with his generals, his cabinet, his party, and a majority of the American people.

On January 1, 1863, Lincoln delivered his official Emancipation Proclamation , reshaping the cause of the Civil War from saving the Union to abolishing slavery.

The Union Army’s first year and a half of battlefield defeats made it difficult to keep morale high and support strong for a reunification of the nation. And the Union victory at Antietam on September 22, 1862, while by no means conclusive, was hopeful. It gave Lincoln the confidence to officially change the goals of the war. On that same day, he issued a preliminary proclamation that slaves in states rebelling against the Union would be free as of January 1.

The Emancipation Proclamation stated that all individuals who were held as enslaved people in rebellious states “henceforward shall be free.” The action was more symbolic than effective because the North didn’t control any states in rebellion, and the proclamation didn’t apply to border states, Tennessee, or some Louisiana parishes.

As a result, the Union army shared the Proclamation’s mandate only after it had taken control of Confederate territory. In the far reaches of western Texas, that day finally came on June 19, 1865—more than two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. For decades, many Black Americans have celebrated this anniversary, known as Juneteenth or Emancipation Day, and in 2021, President Joe Biden made Juneteenth a national holiday.

Still, the Emancipation Proclamation did have some immediate impact. It permitted Black Americans to serve in the Union Army for the first time, which contributed to the eventual Union victory. The historic declaration also paved the way for the passage of the 13 th Amendment that ended legal slavery in the United States.

On November 19, 1863, Lincoln delivered what would become his most famous speech and one of the most important speeches in American history: the Gettysburg Address .

Addressing a crowd of around 15,000 people, Lincoln delivered his 272-word speech at one of the bloodiest battlefields of the Civil War, the Gettysburg National Cemetery in Pennsylvania. The Civil War, Lincoln said, was the ultimate test of the preservation of the Union created in 1776, and the people who died at Gettysburg fought to uphold this cause.

Lincoln evoked the Declaration of Independence , saying it was up to the living to ensure that the “government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth,” and this Union was “dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”

A common interpretation was that the president was expanding the cause of the Civil War from simply reunifying the Union to also fighting for equality and abolishing slavery.

Following Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, the war effort gradually improved for the North, though more by attrition than by brilliant military victories.

But by 1864, the Confederate armies had eluded major defeat and Lincoln was convinced he’d be a one-term president. His nemesis George B. McClellan , the former commander of the Army of the Potomac, challenged him for the presidency, but the contest wasn’t even close. Lincoln received 55 percent of the popular vote and 212 of 243 electoral votes.

On April 9, 1865, General Robert E. Lee , commander of the Army of Virginia, surrendered his forces to Union General Ulysses S. Grant . The Civil War was for all intents and purposes over.

Reconstruction had already began during the Civil War, as early as 1863 in areas firmly under Union military control, and Lincoln favored a policy of quick reunification with a minimum of retribution. He was confronted by a radical group of Republicans in Congress that wanted complete allegiance and repentance from former Confederates. Before a political debate had any chance to firmly develop, Lincoln was killed.

Lincoln was assassinated on April 14, 1865, by well-known actor and Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theatre in Washington. Lincoln was taken to the Petersen House across the street and laid in a coma for nine hours before dying the next morning. He was 56. His death was mourned by millions of citizens in the North and South alike.

Lincoln’s body first lay in state at the U. S. Capitol. About 600 invited guests attended a funeral in the East Room of the White House on April 19, though an inconsolable Mary Todd Lincoln wasn’t present.

His body was transported to his final resting place in Springfield, Illinois, by a funeral train. Newspapers publicized the schedule of the train, which made stops along various cities that played roles in Lincoln’s path to Washington. In 10 cities, the casket was removed and placed in public for memorial services. Lincoln was finally placed in a tomb on May 4.

On the day of Lincoln’s death, Andrew Johnson was sworn in as the 17 th president at the Kirkwood House hotel in Washington.

Lincoln, already taller than most, is known for his distinctive top hats. Although it’s unclear when he began wearing them, historians believe he likely chose the style as a gimmick.

He wore a top hat to Ford’s Theatre on the night of his assassination. Following his death, the War Department preserved the hat until 1867 when, with Mary Todd Lincoln’s approval, it was transferred to the Patent Office and the Smithsonian Institution. Worried about the commotion it might cause, the Smithsonian stored the hat in a basement instead of putting it on display. It was finally exhibited in 1893, and it’s now one of the Institution’s most treasured items.

Lincoln is frequently cited by historians and average citizens alike as America’s greatest president. An aggressively activist commander-in-chief, Lincoln used every power at his disposal to assure victory in the Civil War and end slavery in the United States.

Some scholars doubt that the Union would have been preserved had another person of lesser character been in the White House. According to historian Michael Burlingame , “No president in American history ever faced a greater crisis and no president ever accomplished as much.”

Lincoln’s philosophy was perhaps best summed up in his Second Inaugural Address , when he stated, “With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.”

The Lincoln Memorial

Since its dedication in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington has honored the president’s legacy. Inspired by the Greek Parthenon, the monument features a 19-foot high statue of Lincoln and engravings of the Gettysburg Address and Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address. Former President William Howard Taft served as chair of the Lincoln Memorial Commission, which oversaw its design and construction.

The monument is the most visited in the city, attracting around 8 million people per year. Civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech on the memorial’s steps in 1963.

Lincoln has been the subject of numerous films about his life and presidency, rooted in both realism and absurdity.

Among the earlier films featuring the former president is Young Mr. Lincoln (1939), which stars Henry Fonda and focuses on Lincoln’s early life and law career. A year later, Abe Lincoln in Illinois gave a dramatized account of Lincoln’s life after leaving Kentucky.

The most notable modern film is Lincoln , the 2012 biographical drama directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Daniel Day-Lewis as Lincoln and Sally Field as his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln . Day-Lewis won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance, and the film was nominated for Best Picture.

A more fantastical depiction of Lincoln came in the 1989 comedy film Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure , in which the titular characters played by Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter travel back in time for the president’s help in completing their high school history report. Lincoln gives the memorable instruction to “be excellent to each other and... party on, dudes!”

Another example is the 2012 action film Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter , based on a 2010 novel by Seth Grahame-Smith. Benjamin Walker plays Lincoln, who leads a secret double life hunting the immortal creatures and even fighting them during the Civil War.

Lincoln’s role during the Civil War is heavily explored in the 1990 Ken Burns documentary The Civil War , which won two Emmy Awards and two Grammys. In 2022, the History Channel aired a three-part docuseries about his life simply titled Abraham Lincoln .

• Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.
• I claim not to have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have controlled me.
• No man is good enough to govern another man, without that other ’ s consent.
• I have learned the value of old friends by making many new ones.
• Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
• Whenever I hear anyone arguing over slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.
• To give the victory to the right, not bloody bullets, but peaceful ballots only, are necessary.
• Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty as the heritage of all men, in all lands, everywhere. Destroy this spirit, and you have planted the seeds of despotism around your own doors.
• Don ’ t interfere with anything in the Constitution. That must be maintained, for it is the only safeguard of our liberties.
• Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.
• With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation ’ s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan—to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.
• I walk slowly, but I never walk backward.
• Nearly all men can handle adversity, if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.
• I ’ m the big buck of this lick. If any of you want to try it, come on and whet your horns.
• We can complain because rose bushes have thorns.
• Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?
• It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to open one’s mouth and remove all doubt.

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Abraham Lincoln

By: History.com Editors

Updated: February 7, 2024 | Original: October 29, 2009

Abraham Lincoln , a self-taught lawyer, legislator and vocal opponent of slavery, was elected 16th president of the United States in November 1860, shortly before the outbreak of the Civil War. Lincoln proved to be a shrewd military strategist and a savvy leader: His Emancipation Proclamation paved the way for slavery’s abolition, while his Gettysburg Address stands as one of the most famous pieces of oratory in American history. 

In April 1865, with the Union on the brink of victory, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth. Lincoln’s assassination made him a martyr to the cause of liberty, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest presidents in U.S. history.

Abraham Lincoln's Childhood and Early Life

Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, to Nancy and Thomas Lincoln in a one-room log cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky . His family moved to southern Indiana in 1816. Lincoln’s formal schooling was limited to three brief periods in local schools, as he had to work constantly to support his family.

In 1830, his family moved to Macon County in southern Illinois , and Lincoln got a job working on a river flatboat hauling freight down the Mississippi River to New Orleans . After settling in the town of New Salem, Illinois, where he worked as a shopkeeper and a postmaster, Lincoln became involved in local politics as a supporter of the Whig Party , winning election to the Illinois state legislature in 1834.

Like his Whig heroes Henry Clay and Daniel Webster , Lincoln opposed the spread of slavery to the territories, and had a grand vision of the expanding United States, with a focus on commerce and cities rather than agriculture.

Did you know? The war years were difficult for Abraham Lincoln and his family. After his young son Willie died of typhoid fever in 1862, the emotionally fragile Mary Lincoln, widely unpopular for her frivolity and spendthrift ways, held seances in the White House in the hopes of communicating with him, earning her even more derision.

Lincoln taught himself law, passing the bar examination in 1836. The following year, he moved to the newly named state capital of Springfield. For the next few years, he worked there as a lawyer and served clients ranging from individual residents of small towns to national railroad lines.

He met Mary Todd , a well-to-do Kentucky belle with many suitors (including Lincoln’s future political rival, Stephen Douglas ), and they married in 1842. The Lincolns went on to have four children together, though only one would live into adulthood: Robert Todd Lincoln (1843–1926), Edward Baker Lincoln (1846–1850), William Wallace Lincoln (1850–1862) and Thomas “Tad” Lincoln (1853-1871).

Abraham Lincoln Enters Politics

Lincoln won election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1846 and began serving his term the following year. As a congressman, Lincoln was unpopular with many Illinois voters for his strong stance against the Mexican-American War. Promising not to seek reelection, he returned to Springfield in 1849.

Events conspired to push him back into national politics, however: Douglas, a leading Democrat in Congress, had pushed through the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act (1854), which declared that the voters of each territory, rather than the federal government, had the right to decide whether the territory should be slave or free.

On October 16, 1854, Lincoln went before a large crowd in Peoria to debate the merits of the Kansas-Nebraska Act with Douglas, denouncing slavery and its extension and calling the institution a violation of the most basic tenets of the Declaration of Independence .

With the Whig Party in ruins, Lincoln joined the new Republican Party–formed largely in opposition to slavery’s extension into the territories–in 1856 and ran for the Senate again that year (he had campaigned unsuccessfully for the seat in 1855 as well). In June, Lincoln delivered his now-famous “house divided” speech, in which he quoted from the Gospels to illustrate his belief that “this government cannot endure, permanently, half slave and half free.”

Lincoln then squared off against Douglas in a series of famous debates; though he lost the Senate election, Lincoln’s performance made his reputation nationally. 

Abraham Lincoln’s 1860 Presidential Campaign

Lincoln’s profile rose even higher in early 1860 after he delivered another rousing speech at New York City’s Cooper Union. That May, Republicans chose Lincoln as their candidate for president, passing over Senator William H. Seward of New York and other powerful contenders in favor of the rangy Illinois lawyer with only one undistinguished congressional term under his belt.

In the general election, Lincoln again faced Douglas, who represented the northern Democrats; southern Democrats had nominated John C. Breckenridge of Kentucky, while John Bell ran for the brand new Constitutional Union Party. With Breckenridge and Bell splitting the vote in the South, Lincoln won most of the North and carried the Electoral College to win the White House .

He built an exceptionally strong cabinet composed of many of his political rivals, including Seward, Salmon P. Chase, Edward Bates and Edwin M. Stanton .

Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War

After years of sectional tensions, the election of an antislavery northerner as the 16th president of the United States drove many southerners over the brink. By the time Lincoln was inaugurated as 16th U.S. president in March 1861, seven southern states had seceded from the Union and formed the Confederate States of America .

Lincoln ordered a fleet of Union ships to supply the federal Fort Sumter in South Carolina in April. The Confederates fired on both the fort and the Union fleet, beginning the Civil War . Hopes for a quick Union victory were dashed by defeat in the Battle of Bull Run (Manassas) , and Lincoln called for 500,000 more troops as both sides prepared for a long conflict.

While the Confederate leader Jefferson Davis was a West Point graduate, Mexican War hero and former secretary of war, Lincoln had only a brief and undistinguished period of service in the Black Hawk War (1832) to his credit. He surprised many when he proved to be a capable wartime leader, learning quickly about strategy and tactics in the early years of the Civil War, and about choosing the ablest commanders.

General George McClellan , though beloved by his troops, continually frustrated Lincoln with his reluctance to advance, and when McClellan failed to pursue Robert E. Lee’s retreating Confederate Army in the aftermath of the Union victory at Antietam in September 1862, Lincoln removed him from command.

During the war, Lincoln drew criticism for suspending some civil liberties, including the right of habeas corpus , but he considered such measures necessary to win the war.

Emancipation Proclamation and Gettysburg Address

Shortly after the Battle of Antietam (Sharpsburg), Lincoln issued a preliminary Emancipation Proclamation , which took effect on January 1, 1863, and freed all of the enslaved people in the rebellious states not under federal control, but left those in the border states (loyal to the Union) in bondage.

Though Lincoln once maintained that his “paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or destroy slavery,” he nonetheless came to regard emancipation as one of his greatest achievements and would argue for the passage of a constitutional amendment outlawing slavery (eventually passed as the 13th Amendment after his death in 1865).

Two important Union victories in July 1863—at Vicksburg, Mississippi, and at the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania—finally turned the tide of the war. General George Meade missed the opportunity to deliver a final blow against Lee’s army at Gettysburg, and Lincoln would turn by early 1864 to the victor at Vicksburg, Ulysses S. Grant , as supreme commander of the Union forces.

In November 1863, Lincoln delivered a brief speech (just 272 words) at the dedication ceremony for the new national cemetery at Gettysburg. Published widely, the Gettysburg Address eloquently expressed the war’s purpose, harking back to the Founding Fathers, the Declaration of Independence and the pursuit of human equality. It became the most famous speech of Lincoln’s presidency, and one of the most widely quoted speeches in history.

Abraham Lincoln Wins 1864 Presidential Election

In 1864, Lincoln faced a tough reelection battle against the Democratic nominee, the former Union General George McClellan, but Union victories in battle (especially General William T. Sherman’s capture of Atlanta in September) swung many votes the president’s way. In his second inaugural address, delivered on March 4, 1865, Lincoln addressed the need to reconstruct the South and rebuild the Union: “With malice toward none; with charity for all.”

As Sherman marched triumphantly northward through the Carolinas after staging his March to the Sea from Atlanta, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox Court House , Virginia , on April 9. Union victory was near, and Lincoln gave a speech on the White House lawn on April 11, urging his audience to welcome the southern states back into the fold. Tragically, Lincoln would not live to help carry out his vision of Reconstruction .

Abraham Lincoln’s Assassination

On the night of April 14, 1865, the actor and Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth slipped into the president’s box at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C., and shot him point-blank in the back of the head. Lincoln was carried to a boardinghouse across the street from the theater, but he never regained consciousness, and died in the early morning hours of April 15, 1865.

Lincoln’s assassination made him a national martyr. On April 21, 1865, a train carrying his coffin left Washington, D.C. on its way to Springfield, Illinois, where he would be buried on May 4. Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train traveled through 180 cities and seven states so mourners could pay homage to the fallen president.

Today, Lincoln’s birthday—alongside the birthday of George Washington —is honored on President’s Day , which falls on the third Monday of February.

Abraham Lincoln Quotes

“Nothing valuable can be lost by taking time.”

“I want it said of me by those who knew me best, that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow.”

“I am rather inclined to silence, and whether that be wise or not, it is at least more unusual nowadays to find a man who can hold his tongue than to find one who cannot.”

“I am exceedingly anxious that this Union, the Constitution, and the liberties of the people shall be perpetuated in accordance with the original idea for which that struggle was made, and I shall be most happy indeed if I shall be a humble instrument in the hands of the Almighty, and of this, his almost chosen people, for perpetuating the object of that great struggle.”

“This is essentially a People's contest. On the side of the Union, it is a struggle for maintaining in the world, that form, and substance of government, whose leading object is, to elevate the condition of men—to lift artificial weights from all shoulders—to clear the paths of laudable pursuit for all—to afford all, an unfettered start, and a fair chance, in the race of life.”

“Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”

“This nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

HISTORY Vault: Abraham Lincoln

A definitive biography of the 16th U.S. president, the man who led the country during its bloodiest war and greatest crisis.

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The 12 Best Documentaries About Abraham Lincoln

Jul 22, 2023 | Best Of , History , People

Abraham Lincoln is a towering figure in American history. His legacy has been the subject of endless books, films and documentaries, but which ones are the best? In this article we take a look at some of the most acclaimed documentaries about Abraham Lincoln. From his life as an up-and-coming lawyer to his time as President during one of America’s most turbulent times, these documentaries tell the story of one man who changed our nation forever. So if you’re looking for an entertaining way to learn more about this iconic leader, then read on!

1. Abraham Lincoln – The Great Emancipator

Discover the story of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. This documentary dives into his life and legacy; exploring how he earned the title “The Great Emancipator”. Uncovering his rise from humble beginnings to one of America’s most influential figures in history, this film also looks at how he fought against slavery and pushed for a united country during a time of great division.

2. Abraham Lincoln Biography History Channel Documentary

Abraham Lincoln was one of the most influential figures in American history. This documentary explores his life and legacy, from his humble beginnings as a frontier lawyer to becoming the 16th president of the United States. Learn about how he guided America through civil war and emancipation, ultimately redefining our idea of democracy for generations to come. From The History Channel comes this captivating look at Abraham Lincoln’s incredible journey!

3. The Last Night of Abraham Lincoln – Part 1: Assassination

This documentary was shot at amazing locations across America with over 80 historical actors recreating authentic scenes from that era. From Centre Hill Mansion, Virginia to Strasburg Pennsylvania Railroad, witness the reconstruction of Ford’s Theatre box and summer residence of Lincoln Family in D.C., as you relive the events leading up to his death like a Shakespearian plot! Watch now and experience “Lincoln’s Last Night” first hand!

4. The Last Night of Abraham Lincoln – Part 2: Immortality

Abraham Lincoln is an iconic figure in American history, and his life story is one of courage and perseverance. This docu-drama tells the fascinating tale of President Lincoln’s last night on Earth, from his murderer John Wilkes Booth’s Shakespearian plot to the stunning locations used for filming. With a cast of over 80 historical actors recreating scenes from the White House to Strasburg Railroad, this two-part documentary will take you back to the era when Abraham Lincoln was president and changed America forever.

5. A President At War – Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was one of the greatest presidents in American history. He faced many challenges during his tenure, but none greater than the Civil War. This documentary takes a look at how he led his nation through this tumultuous period and examines what made him such an inspirational leader. From military strategy to political maneuvering, we’ll explore all aspects of Lincoln’s presidency and discover why he is still revered today as one of our country’s most beloved leaders.

6. Abraham Lincoln (1930) D.W. Griffith

Abraham Lincoln was one of the most influential presidents in American history. In this documentary, you will learn about his legacy and the events that shaped him into a great leader. The film is composed of episodic biographies, battles and moments in time where history was written with the help of President Lincoln’s actions. You’ll see Sheridan rides, explore how he changed America forever and understand why he still lives on today as an icon for freedom and justice.

7. Abraham Lincoln: The Railsplitter

Abraham Lincoln was an iconic American figure, and his story is one of courage and perseverance. This documentary will take you on a journey to explore the life of this great man from his childhood in Kentucky to his presidency as “The Railsplitter”. Follow along as we look at the important events that shaped Lincoln’s legacy and learn how he overcame adversity to become one of America’s most beloved presidents.

8. Abraham Lincoln: A Journey To Greatness

Discover the story of one man who changed history. From a frontiersman to an icon, learn about Abraham Lincoln’s journey and how he became one of the most famous figures in American History. Uncover his struggles as a young lawyer, husband and father before becoming president – all while navigating through some of the most difficult times in US history. This documentary is an exploration into this great leader’s life and legacy!

9. Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln: Two Leaders

Discover the story of two great leaders who changed history: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass . Born into slavery, Douglass was a powerful abolitionist leader whose influence guided Lincoln to become “The Great Emancipator”. Learn how these two men pushed forward the cause of freedom and equality in America with this documentary about their lives and legacies!

10. The Unbelievable Journey of Abraham Lincoln’s Corpse

Take a virtual journey with me through the life of our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. From his rise to power to his untimely death and all the way through to the construction of his tomb, I will take you on an unbelievable tour that few have experienced before. Follow along as we uncover secrets about this great man’s life and witness how his legacy lives on today!

11. They’ve Killed President Lincoln

The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln remains one of the most shocking events in American history. In 1971, David Wolper produced a documentary “They’ve Killed President Lincoln” which explored the tragedy and its aftermath. The program can be found on a collection of programs called “Lincoln: Trial By Fire”. This powerful documentary takes viewers back to 1865 as it examines the political turmoil that followed Lincoln’s death and explores how his legacy has endured throughout history. Don’t miss this incredible look at an unforgettable moment in U.S. history!

12. The Complete Story of Abraham: The Father of Nations

Discover the story of Abraham, the Father of Nations like you’ve never seen it before. Uncover how his commitment to God set humanity on a course that changed everything and established the nation of Israel and 12 tribes in Arabia. This video explores Abraham’s journey as he embraces monotheism with power unleashed through God’s mercy. Join us for an incredible journey into this inspiring man’s life! 🚀

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Discover New Content

Abraham Lincoln In film and TV

1. Young Mr. Lincoln

2. The Birth of a Nation

3. In the Days of Buffalo Bill

4. The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln

5. Are We Civilized?

6. The Littlest Rebel

7. The Plainsman

8. Of Human Hearts

9. Abraham Lincoln

10. abe lincoln in illinois.

11. How the West Was Won

12. The Fortune Cookie

13. The Lincoln Conspiracy

14. Dream West

15. Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure

16. The Perfect Tribute

17. North & South: Book 1, North & South

18. The Day Lincoln Was Shot

19. The Conspirator

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