February 12 in American History

February 12, 1809 — Abraham Lincoln is born

Born in a one-room Kentucky log cabin, Lincoln had barely a year of formal schooling and taught himself law by firelight. He rose to save the Union, end slavery, and redefine the nation's purpose in a two-minute speech at Gettysburg — before being assassinated days after the war's end. The self-made man who held the country together.

Common Questions

What happened on February 12 in American history?

In 1809: Abraham Lincoln is born. Born in a one-room Kentucky log cabin, Lincoln had barely a year of formal schooling and taught himself law by firelight.

Why is February 12 significant?

Born in a one-room Kentucky log cabin, Lincoln had barely a year of formal schooling and taught himself law by firelight. He rose to save the Union, end slavery, and redefine the nation's purpose in a two-minute speech at Gettysburg — before being assassinated days after the war's end. The self-made man who held the country together.

The Daily Poll · Weigh In

What was Lincoln's greatest quality?

Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.

★ Forge Your Freedom

Get One of These Every Day

The FreedomMaxxing Daily Brief pairs a history moment like this with what's on your radar today and a live patriot poll — free, 60 seconds.

Take the Free Assessment
Thomas Edison is bornthe first magazine in America