Abraham Lincoln is renowned as one of history’s most influential politicians, but few know about his impressive wrestling career that preceded his political ascent.
Before the 16th President of the United States began grappling with political adversaries, he was a formidable force on the wrestling mat. This lesser-known aspect of Lincoln’s life aligns with his physical attributes: ‘Honest Abe’ was tall, strong, and possessed natural athletic ability.
As a teenager, when not engaged in agricultural work, the Kentucky native competed in catch-as-catch-can wrestling. This tough, hand-to-hand version of the sport was included in the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Games. Elements of this wrestling style can still be observed in freestyle wrestling, folkstyle wrestling, and mixed martial arts.
At age 21, Lincoln was already a county wrestling champion, as noted by BlackBeltMag. After relocating to New Salem, Illinois, the owner of the shop where Lincoln worked, Denton Offut, reportedly entered his gifted employee into local bouts to promote his business.
Word of the six-foot-four (1.95m) grappler’s skills began to circulate, leading to a challenge from Jack Armstrong, the local champion and leader of a group of troublemakers. The match was set to take place outside the shop under the rules of side holds, where either contestant could throw their opponent to the ground. A large crowd gathered to witness the event.
During the match, Lincoln maintained his composure despite Armstrong’s questionable tactics. Eventually, Armstrong conceded, acknowledging Lincoln as “the best feller.” This contest, akin to a modern-day high-profile match, cemented Lincoln’s status as a local hero.
As Lincoln transitioned into studying and practicing law before entering politics, he continued to wrestle. Over 12 years, he reportedly accumulated an impressive 300 victories. His only known defeat came at the hands of Hank Thompson during the Black Hawk War of 1832, where Lincoln served with the Illinois Volunteers. True to his character, he graciously accepted the loss and congratulated his opponent.
Mainstream accounts of Lincoln’s athletic prowess first emerged in 1858 during his campaign for the U.S. Senate in Illinois. The strength and endurance associated with wrestling were viewed as valuable traits for a senior politician.
Although overshadowed by his numerous political achievements, Lincoln’s wrestling legacy endures. In 1992, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame officially recognized him as an “Outstanding American” in the sport. A town called Lincoln in Nebraska, named after the President in 1969, is known for its wrestling culture. Interestingly, it’s the same town where London 2012 Olympic champion Jordan Burroughs based himself during his college years and subsequent successful career.
Lincoln isn’t the only U.S. President with ties to wrestling. Other presidential wrestlers include George Washington, Franklin Pierce, Andrew Jackson, Theodore Roosevelt, and William Taft. The mental fortitude required to outmaneuver opponents and endure physical challenges, coupled with the relentless dedication to practice, may explain why wrestling has fostered such success among these leaders.
