“Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.”

– Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865)
16th president of the United States

Before he was elected president, Abraham Lincoln had a business go under, lost a local legislative race, three congressional races and two senatorial races, and lost a bid for the vice presidency (and throughout he lost three sons).

Now Lincoln is regarded as one of the most influential figures in American history for his role in saving the Union and freeing the slaves.