Abraham Lincoln is primarily known for being the 16th President of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. He is best known for leading the country through its Civil War, preserving the Union, and ending slavery. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared that all slaves in Confederate territory were to be set free. He also delivered the iconic Gettysburg Address, a famous speech that emphasized the importance of equality and democracy. Lincoln's leadership during one of the most challenging times in American history and his efforts to unify the nation have made him one of the most respected and admired presidents in U.S. history.
