Lincoln Dbq Essay

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How did Abraham Lincoln evolve on his position of slavery and abolition? Overview: Abraham Lincoln’s story appeals to the hearts of many Americans. Starting from humble beginnings, he rose to the highest office in the United States. He served during the one of the most challenging times in the history of the United States and suffered a tragic death at a time when his country needed him most—to rebuild the nation. He is remembered for relentlessly fighting to preserve the Union and emancipate the slaves. Background Essay Lincoln was born in Hodgenville, Kentucky on Feb 12, 1809. Raised by poor parents, he received less than a year of formal education by the time he reached the age of 21. His primary means of education was schooling at home, using borrowed books and the Bible. At the age of 22, he moved to the Illinois village of New Salem in 1831, and continued his self-education by borrowing books and teaching himself subjects such as grammar, history, mathematics, and law. He worked as a store clerk in two different general stores. He taught himself surveying, and worked part time at this vocation. He was also appointed postmaster, and served in the militia for 3 months during the Black Hawk war. Less than a year after moving to New Salem, he ran for the state legislature. Although defeated in this initial effort he decided to run again the next term. His second effort proved successful, and he was elected one of Sangamon County's Whig representatives to the Illinois State Legislature in 1834. Vocally anti-slavery, he served four consecutive terms as state legislator, and before he had left that office was admitted to the Illinois bar. He soon became one of the most respected lawyers in the region, known for his honesty and influential manner with juries. In 1842 Lincoln married Mary Todd, a well-educated woman of a notable Kentucky

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