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Why Abraham Lincoln Grew a Beard: The Fascinating Story Behind the Iconic Whiskers

Theodore Mitchell

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Published in Lincoln And Grace: Why Abraham Lincoln Grew A Beard

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Abraham Lincoln With A Beard Lincoln And Grace: Why Abraham Lincoln Grew A Beard

Abraham Lincoln's beard is one of the most recognizable and iconic facial hair styles in American history. It is synonymous with the legendary president and has become an enduring symbol of his character and legacy. But how did Lincoln come to grow a beard, and what were the factors that influenced his decision?

The story of Lincoln's beard begins in the early 1860s, as the nation was on the brink of the Civil War. In 1860, Lincoln was elected president, and shortly after his inauguration, he traveled to Washington, D.C., to take office. As he made his way to the capital, he was met with a letter from a young girl named Grace Bedell, who lived in Westfield, New York.

Lincoln and Grace: Why Abraham Lincoln Grew a Beard

by Steve Metzger

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4355 KB
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Print length	:	40 pages
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In her letter, Grace urged Lincoln to grow a beard, arguing that it would make him look more dignified and presidential. She wrote, "If you will let your whiskers grow, I will try and get the other girls to try and coax their fathers to vote for you."

Lincoln was amused by Grace's letter, and he agreed to grow a beard. He is said to have told a friend, "I suppose I will have to do it now, seeing as how a little girl has asked me to do it." And so, Lincoln began to grow a beard, and he continued to wear it for the rest of his life.

There are a number of reasons why Lincoln decided to grow a beard. First, he believed that it would make him look more authoritative and commanding. In the mid-19th century, beards were seen as a sign of masculinity and strength, and Lincoln felt that a beard would help him project an image of leadership, especially during such a tumultuous time in the nation's history.

Second, Lincoln's beard helped to conceal his disfigurement. Lincoln suffered from a rare condition known as Marfan syndrome, which caused him to have an unusually long and thin frame, as well as a prominent jaw and sunken eyes. He was self-conscious about his appearance, and he believed that a beard would help to hide some of his facial features that he found unattractive.

Third, Lincoln's beard was a symbol of his connection to the common people. Lincoln was born into a poor family, and he worked as a lawyer before entering politics. He always identified with the working class, and he felt that a beard was a way for him to show his humble origins and his connection to the people he served.

Lincoln's beard quickly became a symbol of his presidency and his leadership during the Civil War. It was a sign of his determination, his resilience, and his unwavering commitment to preserving the Union. The beard also helped to humanize Lincoln and make him more relatable to the American people. He was a man who could laugh at himself, and he was not afraid to show his human side, even in the midst of a bitter war.

Today, Lincoln's beard remains an iconic symbol of American history and leadership. It is a reminder of a great man who faced great challenges and who ultimately led the nation to victory and unity. Lincoln's beard is a testament to his character, his courage, and his enduring legacy.

The Legacy of Lincoln's Beard

Lincoln's beard has had a lasting impact on American culture and history. It has been imitated by countless other presidents, politicians, and celebrities, and it has become a symbol of authority, masculinity, and wisdom.

In 1922, the U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp commemorating the 100th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. The stamp featured a portrait of Lincoln with a beard, and it became one of the most popular stamps in American history.

In 1942, the U.S. Mint issued a coin commemorating the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. The coin featured a profile of Lincoln with a beard, and it is still in circulation today.

Today, Lincoln's beard is still a symbol of American history and leadership. It is a reminder of a great man who faced great challenges and who ultimately led the nation to victory and unity. Lincoln's beard is a testament to his character, his courage, and his enduring legacy.

Abraham Lincoln's beard is one of the most iconic and recognizable facial hair styles in American history. It is synonymous with the legendary president and has become an enduring symbol of his character and legacy. The story of Lincoln's beard is a fascinating one, and it sheds light on the man behind the myth.

Lincoln and Grace: Why Abraham Lincoln Grew a Beard

by Steve Metzger

4.3 out of 5