Abraham Lincoln is a significant figure in Black history because of his role in the abolition of slavery in the United States. As the 16th President, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, declaring all enslaved individuals in Confederate-held territory to be legally free. This was a turning point in the Civil War and laid the foundation for the eventual passage of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which officially abolished slavery throughout the country.

Although Lincoln's views on race and equality evolved over time, he is often celebrated for his leadership in ending the institution of slavery and his commitment to preserving the Union during a tumultuous period in American history. His actions had a profound impact on the lives of African Americans and their descendants, shaping the course of Black history in the United States.