Abraham Lincoln Day, celebrated on February 12th, pays tribute to the 16th President of the United States, a leader whose legacy of unity and emancipation endures. But beyond the famous Gettysburg Address, Lincoln's life is brimming with little-known anecdotes.

Born in a log cabin in Kentucky, Lincoln's rise to power is the quintessential rags-to-riches story. However, few know that he held several odd jobs before politics, including riverboat worker, postmaster, and surveyor. His self-taught journey to becoming a lawyer is a testament to his relentless determination.

Interestingly, Lincoln was a wrestler! Known for his tall and lanky frame, he competed in nearly 300 matches and lost only one. His athleticism and wit earned him the nickname “The Wrestling President.”

Despite being a towering political figure, Lincoln battled lifelong depression. He referred to it as “melancholy,” often finding solace in humor, storytelling, and poetry. Yet, this struggle never deterred him from his mission to lead during one of America’s darkest times.

Another fascinating fact is that Lincoln was a tech enthusiast. He's the only U.S. president to hold a patent. In 1849, he designed a device to lift boats over obstacles in shallow waters. Though never implemented, it showcased his inventive spirit.

On a personal note, Lincoln's love for reading shaped his worldview. With little formal education, he consumed books ranging from Shakespeare to Euclid, blending philosophy and logic into his speeches.

Abraham Lincoln Day reminds us of a man who, despite personal struggles and humble beginnings, reshaped a nation with courage, intellect, and empathy—qualities still relevant today.