Hello, I am Abraham Lincoln. I am known for being very tall, honest, and courageous. I was the 16th President of the United States. I also love to wear my amazing stovepipe hat. I never leave home without it.

I was born February 13, 1809. I grew up very poor. I had one brother and one sister and we all lived in a one bedroom cabin with my parents. When I was 9 years old, my mother passed away. My eleven year old sister, Sarah, took over the care of the house and my brother and I.

Growing up, I knew many people who owned slaves. It was legal in Kentucky; however, my father refused to own any slaves because he believed it was not right. 

In 1836, I passed my bar exam and became a lawyer. I served many clients ranging from townspeople to big railroads. 

In 1842, I married the love of my life, Mary Todd Lincoln. We had 4 amazing kids. Sadly, only one of my kids lived to be an adult. 

In 1846, I decided to enter into politics, and I joined the Whig Party. I was elected into the House of Representatives for one term. 

In 1858, I decided that I wanted to be a senator and joined the Republican Party. I ran against Stephen A. Douglas. I lost the election. Even though I did not win, the debates drew a lot of attention to me. In 1860, the Republican Party elected me for the Presidential Election. 

I was inaugurated as the 16th President of the United States in March 1861. 

After my election, seven states formed the Confederate States of America. I supplied Union ships to supply Fort Sumpter.  The Confederates fired on both the Fort and the Union Fleet beginning the Civil War.

Many people were surprised that I learned quickly about war strategy, tactics,  and that I chose the most qualified commanders in the early years of the Civil War.

On September 22, 1862 after the battle at Antieam, I announced a preliminary Emancipation Proclamation declaring that all African Americans who were slaves would become free on January 1, 1863. 

I knew I was doing the right thing in signing the Emancipation Proclamation. I was proud to sign it.