President Obama and Congress marked the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth today, with Obama reflecting on how Lincoln's vision led to his own success, CNN reports. "I can say that I feel a special gratitude to this singular figure who in so many ways made my own story possible—and who in so many ways made America's story possible," Obama said at a ceremony at the Capitol.
Obama will travel to Springfield, Ill., later to honor Lincoln in his hometown. The Library of Congress unveiled an exhibition of several Lincoln artifacts to mark the occasion. On display are a letter Lincoln wrote in defense of the Emancipation Proclamation, a “Wanted” poster for John Wilkes Booth, and a letter from a young girl urging candidate Lincoln to grow a beard.
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