How Did Abraham Lincoln Conserve The Union?

In 1861, America was at war with itself, with the 16th President of the United States fighting to keep it whole. Viewed by many as the most influential President, Abraham Lincoln would preserve the Union, abolish slavery, strengthen the federal government, and modernize the economy (AAREG). On February 12, 1809, Lincoln was born in a one-room log cabin on the Sinking Spring farm near Hodgenville, Kentucky. His parents, Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln, were hardworking farmers. Abraham’s youth was very difficult, his mother passed away when he was nine years old and land disputes caused the family to have to move several times. Shortly after his mother’s death, his father married Sarah Bush Johnston. Abraham and his stepmother became very close and began referring to her as “mother”. His family were members of the Separate Baptist Church, which had restrictive moral standards and opposed alcohol, dancing, and slavery.
He was elected to lead his company of soldiers, however, he never saw combat during his tour. Even with no experience he was characterized as an able and competent leader (Wikipedia). In the same year of 1832, Lincoln began his political career with his first campaign for the Illinois General Assembly. He would ultimately lose due to lack of education, funds, and money. During this time, Lincoln became engaged to Mary Todd after dating numerous women. Mary was born in Lexington, Kentucky to a wealthy slave-holding family. Lincoln and Todd married on November 4, 1842 in Mary’s married sister’s mansion. After marrying, Lincoln decided to study law, which benefited his political career resulting in being elected to the state