Leaders & Politicians · 19th Century

Abraham Lincoln’s Last Words

Abraham Lincoln photo
February 12, 1809 April 14, 1865 Age 56 American
She won't think anything about it.
— Abraham Lincoln, April 14, 1865

Who Was Abraham Lincoln?

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President who led the nation through the Civil War, preserved the Union, and abolished slavery.

The Final Moments

Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre in Washington. His final words were in response to his wife Mary.

Are These Words Verified?

✓ High Confidence

Multiple firsthand witnesses including Mary Lincoln and Dr. Leale confirmed these words spoken at Ford's Theatre before Lincoln lost consciousness. Well-documented in contemporary accounts.

Sources

  • firsthand Dr. Charles Leale's firsthand account
  • archive Lincoln's assassination eyewitness testimony
  • biography Doris Kearns Goodwin, Team of Rivals

Legacy

Lincoln is consistently ranked America's greatest president.

Civil WarEmancipation ProclamationPresidentassassinationUnion

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Abraham Lincoln’s last words?

“She won't think anything about it.”

How did Abraham Lincoln die?

Abraham Lincoln died on April 14, 1865 at the age of 56. Cause of death: Gunshot wound.

Were Abraham Lincoln’s last words documented?

Multiple firsthand witnesses including Mary Lincoln and Dr. Leale confirmed these words spoken at Ford's Theatre before Lincoln lost consciousness. Well-documented in contemporary accounts.