Who is Abraham Lincoln’s parents? Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Kentucky. His parents, Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks Lincoln, played a significant role in shaping his early life and values. This article delves into the lives of Abraham Lincoln’s parents, exploring their backgrounds and the impact they had on their son’s future presidency.
Thomas Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s father, was born on December 9, 1768, in Elizabethtown, Virginia. He was of English and Scottish descent and worked as a farmer, a common occupation for many in the frontier region during that time. Thomas Lincoln was known for his strong work ethic and his ability to adapt to the harsh conditions of the frontier. He married Nancy Hanks on June 12, 1806, in Kentucky.
Nancy Hanks Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s mother, was born on August 5, 1784, in Elkton, Virginia. She was of English descent and also worked as a farmer. Nancy was known for her intelligence and her ability to read and write, which was quite rare for a woman of her time. She was an avid reader and had a significant influence on her son’s love for books and learning.
Unfortunately, both Thomas and Nancy Lincoln faced personal challenges that would impact their family. In 1816, when Abraham was just seven years old, Nancy Hanks Lincoln passed away from milk sickness, a disease caused by the consumption of contaminated milk. This devastating loss left Thomas Lincoln to raise their two young sons, Abraham and Thomas. A few years later, in 1818, Thomas Lincoln’s own father passed away, leaving him to care for his son alone.
Despite the hardships they faced, Thomas Lincoln worked hard to provide for his family. He moved the family to Indiana in 1830, where he hoped to find better opportunities for farming. It was during this time that Abraham Lincoln began to develop his own sense of justice and compassion, influenced by his father’s strong moral values and his mother’s love for learning.
Abraham Lincoln’s parents, Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln, may not have had formal education or significant wealth, but their values and love for their son played a crucial role in shaping his character and future. Their dedication to hard work, integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge left a lasting impact on Abraham Lincoln, ultimately leading him to become one of the most influential presidents in American history.
