21/09/2025
In 1842, Abraham Lincoln became embroiled in a heated political dispute with James Shields, the Illinois State Auditor, over the state’s banking crisis. Lincoln, under the pseudonym “Rebecca,” mocked Shields in a satirical newspaper letter, ridiculing both his policies and personal life. The letter, along with a second penned by Mary Todd, infuriated Shields, who demanded a retraction and ultimately challenged Lincoln to a duel.
Because dueling was illegal in Illinois, the men agreed to meet on Bloody Island, a neutral strip of land in the Mississippi River near Missouri. As the challenged party, Lincoln chose cavalry broadswords; long, heavy weapons that favored his towering 6'4" frame over Shields’ shorter stature. On the day of the duel, Lincoln dramatically sliced a tree branch above Shields’ head, signaling his reach and strength. Realizing the danger, Shields agreed to a truce before any blows were exchanged.
Though the duel was averted, Lincoln was deeply affected by the incident. He rarely spoke of it afterward and reportedly warned others never to mention it again if they valued his friendship.
