This Day in History: Abraham Lincoln Is Born

This Day in History: Abraham Lincoln Is Born February 12, 1809 One of America’s most admired presidents, Lincoln was born to a poor family in Hodgenville, KY.

He attended school for only one year, but continued to read on his own in an unending effort to improve his mind.

As a young man of 6'4", Lincoln impressed others with his sheer physical strength and was a legendary wrestler.

Before entering politics, Lincoln performed a variety of jobs including stints as a postmaster, surveyor and shopkeeper.

His dry, folksy wit is thought to have helped him hide intense, recurring bouts of depression he experienced for most of his adult life.

Remembered as The Great Emancipator, Lincoln was politically moderate for much of his career, including the issue of slavery.

His greatest legacy was his work to preserve the Union and his signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.