Abraham Lincoln Nominated for President: A Big Step Toward the White House on May 18
May 18 is an exciting day in U.S. presidential history — it's the date in 1860 when Abraham Lincoln was officially nominated to run for President of the United States by the Republican Party!
The Republican National Convention was held in Chicago, Illinois. On the third ballot, Lincoln won the nomination over other strong candidates like William H. Seward. His running mate was Hannibal Hamlin from Maine. This nomination set the stage for Lincoln to become the 16th President later that year in a very important election.
Lincoln was not yet super famous across the whole country, but his honest speeches and debates (especially the Lincoln-Douglas debates) had made people notice him. The nomination was a huge surprise to some — but it changed American history forever!If you're learning about Abraham Lincoln, elections, or how leaders get chosen, this May 18 moment is a thrilling "first big win" in his journey to the presidency.
Who Was Abraham Lincoln? Quick Bio for KidsAbraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States (1861–1865). He grew up in a log cabin in Kentucky and Illinois, worked hard splitting rails and reading books by candlelight, and taught himself to become a lawyer. People loved his honesty — that's why they called him "Honest Abe"!
Lincoln is famous for:
- Leading the country through the Civil War to keep the United States together.
- Signing the Emancipation Proclamation to help free enslaved people.
- Giving the short but powerful Gettysburg Address.
- Wearing a tall black hat and telling funny stories to make people smile.
What Happened on May 18, 1860?
- Thousands of people packed the convention hall in Chicago (called the "Wigwam").
- After two ballots, no one had enough votes.
- On the third ballot, more delegates switched to Lincoln — and he won!
- The crowd went wild with cheers, shouting, and even firing cannons outside!
- Lincoln was at home in Springfield, Illinois, when he got the news. He said it felt like a big responsibility.
- This nomination helped him win the presidency in November 1860.
Fun Facts About Abraham Lincoln and May 18 for Kids
- Lincoln was the first Republican president!
- He was very tall (6 feet 4 inches) and his top hat made him look even taller.
- At the convention, people waved banners and marched with signs supporting Lincoln.
- Lincoln loved animals — he had goats, cats, dogs, and even a turkey at the White House.
- He often told jokes and stories, even during serious times, to help people feel better.
What do you think? Would you want to go to a big political convention with cheering crowds? Or learn more about Honest Abe’s funny stories and the Civil War?
