Abraham Lincoln: 5 Fun Facts You Didn't Know

Abraham Lincoln is one of the most famous presidents in US history. He is known for his role in ending slavery and preserving the Union during the Civil War. But did you know that Lincoln was also a talented wrestler, a self-taught lawyer, and a lover of poetry? Here are five fun facts about Abraham Lincoln that you may not have known:

1. Lincoln Was a Wrestler

Before he became president, Lincoln was a skilled wrestler. He was known as "Honest Abe" for his honesty and fair play. In fact, he only lost one wrestling match in his entire life! He was so good at wrestling that he even won a local contest in 1830.

2. Lincoln Was a Self-Taught Lawyer

Lincoln didn't have a formal education in law. He taught himself law by reading books and practicing on his own. He was admitted to the bar in 1836 and quickly became a successful lawyer. He was known for his ability to argue persuasively and his strong moral principles.

3. Lincoln Loved Poetry

Lincoln was a big fan of poetry. He often quoted poetry in his speeches and letters. He was particularly fond of the works of William Shakespeare and Robert Burns. He even wrote his own poetry, though he never published it.

4. Lincoln Had a Long Beard

Lincoln is known for his long, bushy beard. He grew it out during the Civil War, and it became a symbol of his strength and determination. He kept the beard for the rest of his life, and it became one of his most recognizable features.

5. Lincoln Was the First President to Be Assassinated

Sadly, Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865. Booth was a Confederate sympathizer who wanted to avenge the South's defeat in the Civil War. Lincoln's death shocked the nation and left a lasting impact on American history.

These are just a few of the many interesting facts about Abraham Lincoln. He was a complex and fascinating man who left a lasting legacy on the United States. He is a reminder that even ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things.