Skip to main content
Life of Abraham Lincoln Backwards
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Life of Abraham Lincoln Backwards
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Life of Abraham Lincoln Backwards

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.06182013-62-1
Object Type Book
Author (Italian)
Gifter
Author (American, 1823 - 1896)
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Date 6/16/2009
Medium paper, ink, leather, textile, metal
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 7 1/2 in x W 20 1/4 in x D 13 1/2 in (19.1 cm x 51.4 cm x 34.3 cm )
Physical DescriptionOversize hardcover leather-bound book containing the typed text of a biography of Abraham Lincoln written backwards. The cover is reddish-brown leather with debossed text. There is a red ribbon. The book is dedicated to President Barack Obama and was typed between January 20, 2009 and June 16, 2009.

Historical Note"I retype international literary works integrally backward, in their original or archaic language...while typing on four computer keyboards simultaneously, without looking at the screen." Mr. Santelia Michele is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records for his achievements.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Barack Obama Presidential Library. The Barack Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view