Abraham Lincoln | |
|---|---|
 Abraham Lincoln in 1860 | |
| Nickname(s) | Honest Abe |
| Born | February 12, 1809 Hardin County, Kentucky |
| Died | April 15, 1865 (aged 56) Washington, D.C. |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service | Illinois Militia |
| Years of service | April 21, 1832 – July 10, 1832 |
| Rank | |
| Commands | Rifle company of the 31st Regiment of Militia of Sangamon County, 1st Division |
| Battles / wars | Black Hawk War
aftermath of |
| Other work | Illinois State Representative United States Congressman President of the United States |
Abraham Lincoln served as a volunteer in the Illinois Militia April 21, 1832 – July 10, 1832, during the Black Hawk War. Lincoln never saw combat during his tour but was elected captain of his first company. He was also present in the aftermath of two of the war's battles, where he helped to bury the militia dead. He was mustered in and out of service during the war, going from captain to private and finishing his service in an independent spy company commanded by Captain Jacob Early.
Lincoln's service had a lasting impression on him, and he related tales about it later in life with modesty and a bit of humor. Through his service he was able to forge lifelong political connections. In addition, he received a land grant from the U.S. government for his military service during the war. Though Lincoln had no military experience when he assumed command of his company, he is generally characterized as an able and competent leader.