What Was Lincoln's Dream Before His Death?

Just three days before his assassination, Abraham Lincoln reportedly had a vivid and unsettling dream in which he was assassinated. This premonitory dream deeply troubled him, and he recounted it in detail to his close friend and biographer, Ward Hill Lamon.

Details of Lincoln's Dream

The dream, which Lincoln shared with Lamon, was not merely a vague premonition but a specific and disturbing vision. It is widely believed that Lincoln himself anticipated his own death, as evidenced by this somber discussion just days before the tragic event.

Here are the key aspects of the dream:

• Subject: Lincoln dreamed of his own assassination.
• Timing: The dream occurred three days before his death on April 15, 1865.
• Confidant: He discussed the dream's details with his friend and biographer, Ward Hill Lamon.

This particular dream has become a notable piece of historical lore, often cited as an example of Lincoln's reflective nature and perhaps his awareness of the constant threats to his life during a tumultuous period in American history.

The Significance of the Dream

While the exact psychological impact of the dream on Lincoln is a matter of historical interpretation, his decision to share such a personal and dark premonition with a trusted friend highlights its profound effect on him. It suggests a man burdened by the weight of his responsibilities and perhaps resigned to the dangers that accompanied his leadership.

This dream adds a poignant layer to the narrative of Lincoln's final days, underscoring the profound sense of foreboding that may have accompanied one of America's most pivotal figures.