Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, led the nation through its greatest internal crisis, the American Civil War. Lincoln’s primary goal was the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery, which he advanced through the Emancipation Proclamation. In November 1863, he delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery. In just 272 words, Lincoln redefined the war not just as a struggle for the Union, but as a 'new birth of freedom' that would bring true equality to all citizens. His leadership was marked by his 'Team of Rivals' cabinet and his ability to articulate a clear moral purpose for the nation. Despite being assassinated shortly after the war ended, Lincoln is consistently ranked by historians as one of the greatest U.S. presidents for his integrity and vision.