Lincoln was tall and strong (193cm) at the age of 18 when he was employed by a ship owner to travel down the Ohio River on a flat-bottomed boat to reach New Orleans. Before the age of 25, Lincoln did not have a fixed profession and had to make a living by constantly seeking opportunities. However, he became a successful land surveyor due to his expertise in measuring and calculating, and was frequently sought after to settle land disputes. Lincoln was also an avid reader and spent many late nights reading literature and history books, such as Shakespeare's works and "The History of the United States". He was self-taught and became a well-rounded and knowledgeable individual.
In 1834, Lincoln made his first political speech at a public gathering, where he spoke out against slavery and proposed improvements for public welfare. He was highly regarded for his outstanding character and was elected as a state representative, despite his humble background. Lincoln managed rural postal offices, conducted land surveys, and studied law with the help of his friends. Two years later, he became a lawyer through self-study and was appointed as the Whig Party leader in the state legislature. After gaining experience as a state representative, Lincoln was elected as a U.S. Congressman at the age of 37 in 1846. During this time, the issue of slavery became a significant political matter in the United States, and Lincoln gradually became an opponent of slavery, advocating for its eventual abolition.
When civil war broke out, the Lincoln government initially tried to compromise with the Southern plantation owners, who had long planned a rebellion. The war was not going well, and the capital city of Washington, D.C. was at risk. In an effort to turn the tide of the war, the Homestead Act was passed in May 1862, which granted 160 acres of land to U.S. citizens for a $10 fee, and after 5 years of continuous cultivation, the land would become theirs. In September of the same year, the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, abolishing slavery and declaring that all slaves in the rebellious states were to be free. This changed the course of the war. Despite facing immense pressure and opposition from many elites, Lincoln remained steadfast in his principles and beliefs.
In summary, Lincoln's determination, self-education, and unwavering principles were significant factors in his success as a politician and leader. His legacy is a testament to the importance of education and integrity in achieving great things.
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