How To Teach About Abraham Lincoln

As teachers, allowing our students to learn about and appreciate American history is essential. Few names in American history are as iconic as Abraham Lincoln, with his timeless leadership and powerful words inspiring generations of Americans. And though we might be more familiar with stories from later years of America’s presidents before him, we teachers need to provide a thorough education on Lincoln’s life so our students can understand his incredible impact on this country’s future.

Key Achievements from Abraham Lincoln’s Life

1. Emancipation Proclamation One of Abraham Lincoln’s most significant achievements was the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in the Confederate states were to be set free. It was a significant turning point in the Civil War and laid the groundwork for the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.
   
2. Preservation of the Union During his presidency, Lincoln successfully navigated the country through its most trying time – the Civil War. He worked tirelessly to preserve the Union and ensure the United States remained intact.
   
3. Gettysburg Address Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address is considered one of the greatest speeches in American history. Delivered during the Civil War, it honored those who had died in battle and reaffirmed the principles of democracy and freedom upon which the United States was founded.
   
4. The Homestead Act, signed into law by Lincoln in 1862, provided land to settlers in the western United States. This helped to expand settlement and development in the region, contributing to the country’s growth as a whole.
   
5. Transcontinental Railroad Lincoln supported the construction of a transcontinental railroad which would connect the east and west coasts of the United States. This project transformed the country’s transportation and commerce and helped unite the nation further.
   
6. Second Inaugural Address Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address, delivered just weeks before his assassination, called for unity and reconciliation between the North and South. It is considered one of the most profound speeches ever given by an American president.
   

Overall, Abraham Lincoln’s legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to preserving the Union and upholding the principles of democracy and freedom. His Emancipation Proclamation, efforts to preserve the Union, oratory skills, Homestead Act, support of the Transcontinental Railroad, and his Second Inaugural Address mark him as one of the most influential figures in American history.

Timeline of Abraham Lincoln’s Life and Key Events

Here is a timeline of key events in the life of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States:

1809

• February 12: Abraham Lincoln is born to Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln in Hodgenville, Kentucky.

1816

• The Lincoln family moves to Indiana.

1818

• Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, dies of milk sickness.

1830

• The Lincoln family moves to Illinois.

1831

• Lincoln makes his first political speech, speaking out against the use of alcohol in a local election.

1832

• Lincoln runs for the Illinois state legislature but is defeated.

1834

• Lincoln is elected to the Illinois state legislature as a member of the Whig Party.

1836

• Lincoln meets Mary Todd, whom he will later marry.

1837

• Lincoln becomes a lawyer and begins practicing law in Springfield, Illinois.

1842

• Lincoln marries Mary Todd.

1846

• Lincoln is elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a member of the Whig Party.

1854

• The Kansas-Nebraska Act is passed, which allows for the expansion of slavery into new territories. This prompts Lincoln to become actively involved in politics again, leading to a series of famous debates with Stephen Douglas in 1858.

1860

• Lincoln is elected president of the United States, running as a member of the Republican Party. His victory triggers the start of the American Civil War.

1861

• Lincoln is inaugurated as president on March 4.
• On April 12, Confederate forces fire on Fort Sumter, beginning the Civil War.

1862

• Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, which declares that slaves in Confederate states are free.
• The Union Army wins the Battle of Antietam, a turning point in the Civil War.

1863

• The Union Army wins the Battle of Gettysburg, another turning point in the Civil War.
• Lincoln delivers the famous Gettysburg Address on November 19.

1864

• Lincoln is reelected as president of the United States.
• Union forces capture Atlanta, a major victory for the North.

1865

• The Civil War ends on April 9.
• Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14 and dies the following day, April 15.

Key Themes in Abraham Lincoln’s Life

Abraham Lincoln was a historical figure who embodied numerous themes throughout his life. Here are some of the key themes that come up from his life and their breakdown:

1. Perseverance

Numerous failures and setbacks, including failed businesses and political defeats marked Abraham Lincoln’s life. However, he persevered through these challenges, never losing sight of his goals. He believed in himself and his abilities, which allowed him to overcome obstacles and ultimately become one of the most revered presidents in U.S. history.

2. Leadership

Lincoln was a skilled leader who was able to inspire and motivate others. He had a clear vision for the future of the United States and communicated this vision effectively to others, rallying them to support his cause. He was also willing to make tough decisions and take bold actions when necessary, as evidenced by his decision to sign the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that slaves in Confederate states were free.

3. Equality

Throughout his life, Lincoln was a staunch advocate for equality and justice. He believed all people were created equal and should be treated as such, regardless of race or social status. This belief led him to pursue policies that aimed to end slavery and promote racial equality, such as the Emancipation Proclamation and the Thirteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery.

4. Resilience

Lincoln faced numerous personal and professional challenges throughout his life, including the death of his mother at a young age and the loss of two of his four children. Despite these tragedies, he remained resilient and focused on his work as a lawyer and politician. His resilience was also evident during the Civil War, when he continued leading the country despite intense criticism and opposition.

5. Legacy

Lincoln’s legacy as a president who fought for justice, equality, and freedom continues to inspire generations of Americans. His speeches and writings, such as the Gettysburg Address and the Emancipation Proclamation, are still widely studied and revered today. His life story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, leadership, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Teaching Opportunities from Abraham Lincoln’s Life

Abraham Lincoln’s life provides numerous opportunities for teaching and learning, across a wide range of subjects. Here are some of the teaching opportunities that come up from exploring Lincoln’s life:

1. History

Lincoln played a significant role in shaping U.S. history, particularly during the Civil War era. His presidency saw the United States go through some of its most tumultuous times, including the secession of Southern states and the abolition of slavery. Teachers can use Lincoln’s life to teach students about this critical period in American history and his contributions to the country’s political and social development.

2. Literature

Lincoln was a gifted writer and orator, known for his speeches, letters, and other written works. Teachers can explore Lincoln’s writing and rhetoric to help students develop their own writing skills, as well as examine how language can be used to inspire and motivate people.

3. Leadership

Lincoln is widely regarded as one of America’s greatest leaders, and his leadership style has been studied and emulated by countless others. Teachers can use Lincoln’s life to teach students about leadership skills, such as effective communication, decision-making, and perseverance.

4. Civics

As president, Lincoln was responsible for navigating complex political and social issues, such as the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the Union. Teachers can use Lincoln’s presidency to teach students about the workings of the U.S. government, the importance of civic engagement, and the impact that individual leaders can have on society.

5. Social Justice

Throughout his life, Lincoln was a strong advocate for social justice, particularly in relation to the issue of slavery. Teachers can use Lincoln’s life to teach students about the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of opposition, as well as the ongoing struggle for social justice in the United States and around the world.

Lesson Plan 1: The Power of Persuasion in Lincoln’s Speeches

Learning Objectives:

• Students will analyze some of Abraham Lincoln’s famous speeches to identify persuasive elements and techniques.
• Students will develop their own persuasive skills by creating a short speech on a topic of their choice.

Introduction:

The teacher begins the lesson by asking students if they have ever heard of Abraham Lincoln and what they know about him. The teacher then briefly introduces the concept of persuasive speaking and explains that they will be studying some of Lincoln’s speeches to identify elements of persuasion.

Main Teaching Points:

• A review of persuasive techniques such as ethos, pathos, and logos.
• Analyzing and discussing examples of persuasive language in Lincoln’s speeches, such as the Gettysburg Address and his First Inaugural Address.
• Individual or group practice writing and delivering a persuasive speech on a topic of their choice.

Key Questions:

• What makes a speech persuasive?
• How does Lincoln use persuasive language to achieve his goals?
• How can we use persuasive techniques in our own writing and speaking?

Adaptations for Learners:

• Provide graphic organizers to help students organize their thoughts and identify persuasive elements in Lincoln’s speeches.
• Allow students to work in pairs or small groups to brainstorm and practice their speeches.

Reflection:

Students will reflect on what they learned about persuasive speaking, including what they found effective in Lincoln’s speeches and how they plan to incorporate these techniques in their own speaking and writing.

Lesson Plan 2: Lincoln and the Civil War

Learning Objectives:

• Students will understand the causes and consequences of the American Civil War.
• Students will examine Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War and evaluate his decisions as president.

Introduction:

The teacher begins the lesson by asking students what they know about the American Civil War and Abraham Lincoln’s role in it. The teacher then provides a brief overview of the war and Lincoln’s presidency.

Main Teaching Points:

• A review of the causes and consequences of the American Civil War.
• Examining Lincoln’s leadership during the war, including his decision to sign the Emancipation Proclamation.
• Analyzing primary source documents, such as Lincoln’s speeches and letters, to evaluate his leadership and decision-making during the war.

Key Questions:

• What were the main causes of the American Civil War?
• How did Lincoln’s leadership impact the outcome of the war?
• How do we evaluate Lincoln’s decisions as president, both during the Civil War and throughout his presidency?

Adaptations for Learners:

• Use visual aids, such as maps and timelines, to help students better understand the complex events leading up to and during the Civil War.
• Provide differentiated reading materials to accommodate students’ different reading levels.

Reflection:

Students will reflect on what they learned about Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War, including his role in ending slavery and preserving the Union.

Lesson Plan 3: Lincoln and Slavery

Learning Objectives:

• Students will understand the significance of slavery in U.S. history.
• Students will analyze Lincoln’s views on slavery and evaluate his policies and decisions related to its abolition.

Introduction:

The teacher begins the lesson by asking students what they know about slavery and its impact on U.S. history. The teacher then briefly overviews Lincoln’s views on slavery and how they evolved over time.

Main Teaching Points:

• Examining primary source documents, such as Lincoln’s speeches and letters, to understand his views on slavery.
• Analyzing specific policies and decisions related to abolition, such as the Emancipation Proclamation and the Thirteenth Amendment.
• Evaluating the impact of Lincoln’s policies and decisions on the abolition of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States.

Key Questions:

• What were Lincoln’s views on slavery, and how did they change?
• What policies and decisions did Lincoln make related to the abolition of slavery, and how effective were they?
• How do we evaluate Lincoln’s actions related to slavery in the context of U.S. history and ongoing racial justice issues?

Adaptations for Learners:

• Use visual aids, such as timelines and primary source images, to help students better understand the historical context of slavery.
• Provide differentiated reading materials to accommodate students’ different reading levels.

Reflection:

Students will reflect on what they learned about Lincoln’s role in the abolition of slavery, including his contributions to the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States.

Teaching about Abraham Lincoln is sure to inspire and inform your students. After learning about Abraham Lincoln’s accomplishments, it’s easy to understand why he remains a beloved figure in history—he showed us that we can all contribute positively to society through courage and strength of character.

While this article has given you tips and ideas on how to facilitate a lesson plan on Abraham Lincoln, many other aspects of his life can be explored within the classroom. With creative activities such as primary source document analysis, debates and more, you can bring Abraham Lincoln’s story and legacy to life for your students.

If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge further – or finding more interesting lesson plans – come and check out our other articles! Thank you for joining us as we researched this extraordinary man: America’s 16th President – Abraham Lincoln!

FAQ: How to Teach About Abraham Lincoln

1. Why is Abraham Lincoln important to teach in schools?

Abraham Lincoln is widely regarded as one of the most influential presidents in U.S. history, and his life offers numerous opportunities for teaching and learning across a wide range of subjects. Lincoln’s legacy continues to inspire generations of Americans from his leadership during the Civil War to his advocacy for social justice.

2. At what grade level is it appropriate to teach about Abraham Lincoln?

Abraham Lincoln can be taught at various grade levels, depending on the school curriculum and the depth of study. However, most commonly, he is taught in elementary, middle, and high school social studies or American history classes.

3. What are some resources for teaching about Abraham Lincoln?

There are many resources available for teaching about Abraham Lincoln, such as biographies, primary source documents, and historical fiction. Teachers can also use multimedia resources, such as videos and podcasts, to provide a more dynamic and immersive learning experience for their students. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum also offers educational resources for teachers and students.

4. How can teachers make Abraham Lincoln interesting and engaging for students?

Teachers can make the study of Abraham Lincoln interesting and engaging by incorporating interactive activities, such as debates, simulations, and role-playing exercises. They can also use technology and visual aids, such as virtual field trips and interactive maps, to help students better understand historical events and concepts related to Lincoln’s life.

5. What are some key themes that can be explored when teaching about Abraham Lincoln?

Some key themes that can be explored when teaching about Abraham Lincoln include perseverance, leadership, equality, resilience, and legacy. By exploring these themes through the lens of Lincoln’s life, students can gain a deeper understanding of how historical figures can inspire and inform our understanding of the world today.