In 1861 Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) became the United States' sixteenth president. But before Lincoln became the nation's chief executive, he led a fascinating life that sheds considerable light upon significant themes in American history. This World Wide Web site presents materials from Lincoln's Illinois years (1830-1861), supplemented by resources from Illinois' early years of statehood (1818-1829). Thus Lincoln/Net provides a record of Lincoln's career, but it also uses his experiences as a lens through which users might explore and analyze his social and political context.

• Search these primary source materials by using the toolbar (text, image, video, sound, interactive resource, or all) at the top of this and every page.
• This site includes interpretive materials, featuring a brief Lincoln biography and discussions of eight major historical themes. This helps visitors raise historical questions and formulate hypotheses, thereby searching the primary materials more constructively.
• Read Lincoln's Biography by placing mouse over image at left (Lincoln's Biography) and click on your selection.
• To view discussions of eight major historical themes, place mouse over the image at left (Historical Themes) and click on your selection.
• Browse our most popular collections by clicking on the links provided below.
• Read our rights information page regarding use and citation of Lincoln/Net materials.
• Tell us what you think about our site by taking our survey.

Northern Illinois University Libraries' digitization projects rely upon financial support provided by individual donors, private foundations, and state and federal agencies. Please contact Drew VandeCreek if you would like to inquire about making a tax-deductible donation to support our work.