Tad Lincoln

Thomas "Tad" Lincoln

Name	Thomas "Tad" Lincoln
Birth name
Birth date	April 4, 1853
Birth place	Springfield, Illinois, U.S.
Death date	July 15, 1871
Death place	Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Alma mater
Occupation
Years active
Organization
Known for	Son of Abraham Lincoln
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Thomas "Tad" Lincoln (April 4, 1853 – July 15, 1871) was the fourth and youngest son of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and Mary Todd Lincoln. Tad was known for his vivacious personality and the close relationship he shared with his father during the tumultuous years of the American Civil War.

Early Life

Tad Lincoln was born in Springfield, Illinois, and was named after his paternal grandfather, Thomas Lincoln. He was given the nickname "Tad" by his father because of his small size and the way he wiggled as an infant, resembling a tadpole. Tad had a speech impediment and a cleft palate, which affected his ability to speak clearly.

Life in the White House

Tad moved into the White House with his family in 1861, when his father became President. The White House became a playground for Tad, who was known for his mischievous antics and boundless energy. He was often seen with his pet goats and was known to interrupt important meetings and events.

Tad's education was informal; he was tutored by private teachers, but his learning was often disrupted by the ongoing Civil War and his own lack of interest in formal studies. Despite this, Tad was known for his curiosity and intelligence.

Relationship with Abraham Lincoln

Tad shared a particularly close bond with his father, who indulged his son's whims and allowed him considerable freedom. President Lincoln was known to carry Tad on his shoulders and often took him to visit the Union Army camps. The President's affection for Tad was a source of comfort during the difficult years of his presidency.

Later Years and Death

After the assassination of Abraham Lincoln in 1865, Tad moved with his mother and brother, Robert Todd Lincoln, to Chicago, Illinois. The family later traveled to Europe, where Tad attended school in Frankfurt, Germany.

Tad returned to the United States in 1871, but his health had begun to decline. He died on July 15, 1871, at the age of 18, likely from tuberculosis. His death was a devastating blow to his mother, Mary Todd Lincoln, who had already endured the loss of her husband and two other sons.

Legacy

Tad Lincoln is remembered for his lively spirit and the joy he brought to his family during a time of national crisis. His life has been the subject of various historical studies and fictional portrayals, highlighting the personal side of the Lincoln family.

Also see

• Abraham Lincoln
• Mary Todd Lincoln
• Robert Todd Lincoln
• Lincoln family
• American Civil War