There are certain attributes that good presidents have. It is said that "good presidents are always stubborn and disagreeable." 1 Along with those two qualities good presidents are intelligent, selfless, hard working, good communicators, good listeners, good problem solving tactics, determination, and they are able to recognize problems.

George Washingtons rise to power started in 1732 when he was born, in Westmoreland, Virginia on his father's farm. He lived until 1799, when he died at the age of sixty-seven. He served as president from 1789 threw until 1797. When growing up, George received most of his education from his father and older brothe

In Lincoln's second year in office he came up with the Emancipation Proclamation. This bill came into affect on Jan 1, 1863. The bill stated that "slaves within any state, or designated part of a state...then... in rebellion, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free." 19 The Emancipation Proclamation was brilliant. It increased support for the unions and it calmed the radical abolitionists. With the Emancipation Proclamation Lincoln is able to end slavery and do what is needed to win the war, which is what is best for the country. This also shows his selflessness.

Lincoln's working days started in 1831. "Abe and his brother were hired to build a boat and float it down the Mississippi with a load of cargo on it. The boat was headed towards New Orleans and this is where Lincoln saw his first, but not last, slave auction. Lincoln is quoted in saying, "if I ever got a chance to hit that thing, I would hit it hard." 11 Lincoln was not in favor of slavery but he was certainly to abolitionist.

Although not mentioned above Lincoln faced many set backs when in the White House. "His son Willie died and left his wife mentally ill."21 Despite this Lincoln was still able to focus on his main duties. This is why is one of the greatest Presidents of all time.

In 1834 Lincoln made a second attempt to maintain a seat in the Illinois State legislature. This time Abe Lincoln was successful in gaining a seat. This shows Lincoln's hard work, and determination. Lincoln was elected in 1834, 1836, 1838, and in 1840. "Lincoln was successful in achieving his goal of relocating the state capital from Vandalia to Springfield. In 1836, Lincoln became floor leader, and was encouraged to practice law by Congressman John T. Stuart."14 Lincoln became a licensed attorney in 1836.

3. Cunliffe, Marcus. George Washington and the Making of a Nation. American Heritage Publishing Co., Inc.

Lincoln's career in politics began in the spring of 1832, when Lincoln was 23, he ran for a seat on the Illinois House of Representatives. In his campaign, "Lincoln called for construction of canals and roads, better schools, and a low interest rate to stimulate local economic growth."12 Unfortunately Lincoln lost in this election. Following the election Lincoln took a job as the postmaster where he became well known and well liked. Despite losing the election Lincoln learned how to overcome failure and adversity.

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Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)