Abraham Lincoln Birth Anniversary: Old Video Of PM Modi Praising His Perseverance Resurfaces

On the birth anniversary of Abraham Lincoln, a video from 2006 resurfaced on social media in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the former US President’s perseverance and called on students to learn from his life.

Shared by the ‘Modi Archive’ handle on X, the clip shows PM Modi, then Gujarat Chief Minister, speaking about Lincoln’s resilience and steadfast commitment to his principles.

Today is the birth anniversary of former American President Abraham Lincoln.

In 2006, while addressing youngsters during the convocation at Nirma University, CM @narendramodi recalled Lincoln’s life and delivered a powerful message of perseverance, which remains very relevant… pic.twitter.com/eMB6b4Pj8h

— Modi Archive (@modiarchive) February 12, 2026

Addressing students at a convocation ceremony at Nirma University, PM Modi reflected on Lincoln’s long political journey marked by repeated defeats.

“If a person, despite a series of failures and setbacks, for three decades, persists with a valiant fight, certainly we can also take inspiration from his life,” he said.

He emphasised that one should not view setbacks as the end but treat them as opportunities for renewal.

Lincoln’s life, he noted, demonstrated how determination and conviction can overcome repeated disappointments.

Recalling Lincoln’s struggles, PM Modi said, “Abraham Lincoln lost many elections, failing even to win the panchayat elections in his village. He also faced failure in business and struggled with debts every time he contested. Despite failures in every aspect of life, Abraham Lincoln never gave up. He continued to strive, struggle, and move forward towards his goal.”

“Finally, a time came when he achieved his first major success, becoming the President of the United States. This success was not merely a story of ascent to the highest position of power, but a triumph of patience, dedication and unwavering determination,” he added.

Lincoln, the 16th US President, served from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865 and is remembered for leading the United States through the Civil War and advancing the abolition of slavery.

The remarks continue to resonate as Lincoln’s legacy remains closely associated with democratic values and human rights.