What was Abraham Lincoln's first major success?

In 1834 Aberham Lincoln won election to the state legislature, and, after coming across the 'Commentaries on the Laws of England' ( the influential 18th century treaties on the common law of England.), began to teach himself law. Admitted to the bar in 1837, he moved to Springfield, Illinois that same year and began to practice law with John T Stuart. With a reputation as a formidable adversary during cross-examination and closing arguments, Lincoln became one of the most respected and sucessful lawyers in Illiones.