It is a well known fact that Abraham Lincoln was our 16th president. Lincoln was the country’s leader during one of the most difficult periods of American history; the Civil War. The president’s term came to a tragic end, when in April 1865, John Wilkes Booth assassinated him. However, who was the man outside of his presidency? What trials did the future president face before leading America?Lincoln was born in Hardin County, Kentucky in the year 1809. From the time of his birth, he would endure several trials and tribulations. Lincoln’s mother died when he was ten years old, and as for an education, his work on the farm made learning difficult. However, the future president persevered, and fought hard for a good education. Not only did Lincoln serve in the Black Hawk War (as a captain, too) but he progressed to a legislative position in Illinois, as well.Eventually, the future president married Marry Todd. Yet, the joyous union had its tragedies as well; only one of their four sons survived beyond a youthful age.Lincoln’s pre-presidential life was filled with tragedy. However, such adversity would give Lincoln the strength to lead his country through hard times.