Abraham Lincoln is a major figure in American history known for his efforts in the abolition of slavery. Elected as the 16th President in 1860, his leadership during the Civil War was crucial in preserving the Union. The issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 declared freedom for slaves in Confederate-held territory. Lincoln's commitment to equality and unity shaped the trajectory of the nation, leaving an enduring legacy as a champion of human rights.