5 Lesser-Known Facts About Abraham Lincoln: A Background Guide

5 Lesser-Known Facts About Abraham Lincoln: A Background Guide

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, is widely known as one of the most important figures in American history. His legacy is marked by his role in ending slavery and preserving the Union during the Civil War, among other accomplishments. However, there are several lesser-known facts about Lincoln’s life and presidency that are worth exploring. In this article, we’ll delve into five of these facts, shedding light on his personal life, political career, and the impact he had on the country.

Fact #1: Lincoln Was the First President to Have a Beard

Although it may seem like a trivial fact, Lincoln’s beard was actually a significant part of his presidential image. He grew it out in response to a letter from an 11-year-old girl named Grace Bedell, who suggested that he would look more presentable with some facial hair. Lincoln took her advice and started growing a beard. When he was elected president, his beard became a recognizable symbol of his presidency. Interestingly, no president before him had sported a beard while in office.

Fact #2: Lincoln Was Not a Fan of the Name ‘Abraham’

Despite being known as one of the most iconic figures in American history, Lincoln had a somewhat complicated relationship with his first name. In fact, he once remarked that he didn’t like it and preferred to be called ‘Abe’ instead. It’s unclear why he disliked his name, but it’s possible that he found it too formal or maybe even too biblical. Whatever the reason, Lincoln’s preference for his nickname is a lesser-known fact that adds a bit of humanity to the larger-than-life image we have of him.

Fact #3: Lincoln Was A Skilled Wrestler

Lincoln was known for his lanky frame and physical strength, and one of his favorite pastimes was wrestling. In fact, he was so good at it that he only lost one of his approximately 300 matches. His wrestling skills may have been a factor in his ability to diffuse political tensions, as he was known to occasionally use wrestling metaphors when dealing with stubborn opponents. If nothing else, this fact shows that Lincoln was not just a cerebral statesman but also a physically capable man with a varied set of skills and interests.

Fact #4: Lincoln’s Assassination Was Not the First Attempt on His Life

Lincoln’s assassination on April 14, 1865, is one of the most notorious moments in American history. However, many people don’t realize that it was not the first time he had been targeted. In 1861, before he even took office, he received a death threat from a Baltimore bartender named Cypriano Ferrandini. Later that same year, a group of conspirators attempted to sabotage a train that Lincoln was traveling on by loosening a rail. Fortunately, the plot was foiled, and Lincoln was unharmed. These incidents highlight the immense pressure and danger that Lincoln faced during his presidency, and they provide important context for understanding the significance of his leadership during those turbulent times.

Fact #5: Lincoln Was Not a Fan of Traditional Thanksgiving Food

Given his national prominence and the importance of Thanksgiving as a holiday in American culture, it’s surprising to learn that Lincoln wasn’t particularly fond of the traditional Thanksgiving meal. In fact, he reportedly preferred wild game, like venison and squirrel, over turkey and stuffing. This fact may seem trivial, but it’s a reminder that even great figures in history have personal preferences and quirks that humanize them.

Conclusion

Abraham Lincoln’s impact on American history is undeniable, but there is much more to his story than what most people learn in school. By exploring these lesser-known facts, we can gain a deeper understanding of his life and legacy. Whether it’s his famous beard, his wrestling prowess, or his preferences in food, each of these facts sheds light on a different aspect of Lincoln’s personality and experience. As we continue to learn about past leaders and their accomplishments, it’s important to remember that they were all human beings with unique stories and perspectives.