Abraham Lincoln is one of the most famous presidents in history. He became the 16th president of the United States and led the country during the Civil War. He is well known for helping end slavery and keeping the United States together. But very few people know how Lincoln learned when he was young. In this article, we will explore how Abraham Lincoln was educated, what he learned, and how learning shaped his life.
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Early Life and Background
Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a small log cabin in Kentucky, USA. His family was very poor, and his parents could not read or write well. Because of this, Lincoln did not have many chances to go to school like children do today.
When Lincoln was still a boy, his family moved from Kentucky to Indiana. His mother died when he was nine years old, and his father remarried. Lincoln’s stepmother was kind and cared about his education. She encouraged him to read books and go to school when he could.
Very Little Formal Schooling
Lincoln did not go to school like most children today. His family worked on a farm, and he had many jobs helping his father. Because of this, he could only attend school when he had time. Lincoln said that he went to school “by littles”—a little now and a little later—and that his total time in school was less than one year.
Schools in Lincoln’s day were simple and sometimes far from home. Teachers taught small groups of children basic subjects like
- Reading
- Writing
- Spelling
- Arithmetic (numbers and counting)
Lincoln walked long distances to reach school—sometimes miles from his home.
Self-Education: Learning on His Own
Even though Lincoln did not spend much time in formal school, he loved learning. He read every book he could find. When he was young, he often borrowed books from neighbors and read them by the light of the fire at night.
Some of the books Lincoln read included
- The Bible
- Books by Shakespeare
- Spelling and reading books
He also studied English grammar and writing in his early adult years. Lincoln practiced reading and writing whenever he could, even writing with charcoal on wooden boards or drawing letters in the dirt.
This habit of reading and studying on his own made him smart, confident, and well-spoken. It helped him become a good lawyer and leader later in life.
Lincoln’s Belief About Education
Lincoln believed that learning is one of the most important parts of life. He once said that education is something every person should work on and that a good education can help people understand their rights, think for themselves, and take part in their community.
Even though he did not have a lot of schooling, he never stopped learning. He studied hard on his own and believed that knowledge could help him grow as a person and succeed in life.
From Self-Taught Learner to Leader
Lincoln did not stop learning after school. As a young man, he worked in many jobs:
- Helping on the farm
- Selling goods
- Working in a store
- Studying law books
Finally, after studying hard and reading many books, Lincoln became a lawyer in 1836, even though he never went to college. His self-study and experience helped him pass the bar exam and start a successful legal career.
Later, Lincoln entered politics. He became a member of the Illinois legislature and then a leader in national politics. His skills in writing and speaking helped him in debates and speeches, which made him famous long before he became president.
Why Lincoln’s Learning Journey Matters
Lincoln’s story is important because it shows that:
- Education is not just about formal school. Lincoln learned on his own and became one of America’s greatest leaders.
- Hard work and curiosity can make a big difference. Even without books at home, Lincoln found ways to learn.
- Anyone can improve through reading and speaking. Lincoln used what he learned to help others and speak for freedom.
Lincoln’s life shows us that learning does not stop just because school ends. We can learn every day by reading, asking questions, and thinking deeply about the world.
FAQs
1. Did Abraham Lincoln go to college?
No. Lincoln never attended college, but he studied on his own and became educated through books and personal effort.
2. How long did Lincoln go to school?
He said his total formal schooling was less than one year.
3. How did Lincoln learn so much?
He read many books and studied on his own, even while working hard on the farm and later jobs.
4. What books did Lincoln read?
Lincoln read the Bible, books by Shakespeare, and other reading and learning materials he could borrow.
5. Why is Lincoln’s education story important?
It shows that learning can happen anywhere, not just in school—and that hard work can help anyone succeed.
Final Thoughts
Abraham Lincoln’s education was very different from what most people experience today. He did not go to school for long, but he loved learning more than anything. His story teaches us that curiosity, reading, and hard work can help us grow, no matter where we come from or how much schooling we have. Lincoln’s life remains an inspiring example for students and learners everywhere.