Abraham Lincoln is an important figure in Black history primarily for his role in the abolition of slavery in the United States. As the 16th President of the United States, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory were to be set free.

While Lincoln's primary goal in issuing the Emancipation Proclamation was to weaken the Confederate states during the Civil War, the proclamation was a significant step towards ending slavery in the United States. Lincoln also supported the passage of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which formally abolished slavery nationwide.

Lincoln's actions during his presidency to end slavery and his stance against the expansion of slavery into new territories have solidified his legacy as a key figure in Black history and the fight for freedom and equality for African Americans.