What signs of greatness did lincoln exhibit in his life?

History depicts Lincoln as extraordinarily pragmatic and shrewd thinker, that was able to work with people that had previously launched personal attacks against him to abolish slavery, preserve the Union, and strengthen the Federal government.

President Lincoln endured extraordinary pressures during the long Civil War. He carried on despite generals who weren't ready to fight, assassination threats. However, Lincoln remained brave and persevered. He didn't give in to the pressures and end the war early. He kept fighting until the was defeated. A lesser man would have given in and stopped the war before the goals had been achieved. Lincoln did not do this.