What did Abraham Lincoln do for a living? This question often arises when discussing one of the most influential figures in American history. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, had a diverse career before ascending to the nation’s highest office. His journey from a humble background to the presidency is a testament to his resilience, determination, and remarkable abilities.

Before his political career, Lincoln worked as a lawyer, a farmer, and a shopkeeper. Born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Kentucky, Lincoln spent his early years living in a rural setting. His father, Thomas Lincoln, was a farmer, and his mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, was a housewife. Despite their modest means, Lincoln’s parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for learning.

After completing his formal education, which was limited to a few years of grammar school, Lincoln began working on his father’s farm. However, his passion for reading and self-improvement led him to pursue a career in law. In 1831, he moved to New Salem, Illinois, where he worked as a storekeeper and postmaster. During this time, he taught himself law and was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1837.

As a lawyer, Lincoln practiced in Illinois and Kentucky, representing clients in a variety of cases. He gained a reputation for his integrity and oratory skills, which would serve him well in his later political career. Lincoln’s legal work provided him with a solid foundation in public speaking and argumentation, skills that would become invaluable during his presidency.

While his law practice was successful, Lincoln’s true calling was in politics. He joined the Whig Party and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a member of the Illinois House of Representatives in 1834. Over the next few years, he served in the Illinois State Senate and began to gain national attention for his strong stance against slavery.

Lincoln’s political career took a significant turn in 1858 when he challenged Stephen A. Douglas for a seat in the U.S. Senate. Although he lost the election, the debates between Lincoln and Douglas helped to catapult him to national prominence. In 1860, Lincoln was nominated as the Republican Party’s candidate for President, and he went on to win the election, becoming the first Republican to hold the office.

In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln’s career was marked by a series of diverse and challenging roles. From his early days as a farmer to his later years as the President of the United States, Lincoln’s journey was one of self-improvement, dedication, and service to his country. His work as a lawyer, politician, and leader during the Civil War left an indelible mark on American history, making him one of the most revered figures in the nation’s past.