Is Barack Obama The Next Abe Lincoln?

Could Barack Obama be compared to Abe Lincoln? Yes and no. Barack has many similarities with Honest Abe. Both are soft-spoken individuals who know how to give a speech. Lincoln served four successive terms in the Illinois House of Reps and later as a U.S. Representative. Obama was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 1996. On January 3, 2005 Obama became the junior senator for Illinois and currently serving as the only African-American in the U.S. Senate.

There are several differences as well, one being Lincoln was elected president twice. Barack has yet managed to do this; however, this is his first attempt. If history is destined to repeat itself Obama may be in trouble. Obama ran for a U.S. House of Rep position in 2000, but lost. One of the most obvious differences is party affiliation. Lincoln was the first Republican President. Obama, a Democrat, would be the first African-American to hold the position.

Probably the most significant difference between Lincoln and Obama is the campaign trail. Lincoln did not give speeches or campaign to win the presidency. Lincoln was elected thanks to Republican efforts at the state and local level. Although grass roots efforts are still vital to win an election even today, Obama doesn't have the luxury of not making speeches, which can be criticized by the media and fellow contenders.

It could be an interesting election with Obama running. Both Lincoln and Obama were underdogs in their respective party, but as Lincoln proved it doesn't matter. Even the low man on the totum pole can be victorious and change the world as we know it today.

Check out Obama's announcement on the web.