One of the most notable U.S. presidents is Abraham Lincoln. While he was best known for freeing slaves and leading the country out of the Civil War, what most do not realize is that he was a lawyer who literally discouraged litigation. He apparently also could relieve tension by cracking a good joke. It is powerful to imagine how Lincoln inspired harmony through alternative dispute resolution and humor.

President Lincoln was perhaps most famous for signing the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which on paper gave slaves their freedom. Lincoln also led the nation through tumultuous civil war and post-war reformation periods. 

Many agree that his leadership dramatically changed the trajectory of the nation for the better. Beyond abolishing slavery, Lincoln’s dedication to the law and what we now call alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has paved the way for more peaceful means of resolving conflict.