I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
I repeat the declaration made a year ago, that 'while I remain in my present position I shall not attempt to retract or modify the emancipation proclamation, nor shall I return to slavery any person who is free by the terms of that proclamation, or by any of the Acts of Congress.' If the people should, by whatever mode or means, make it an Executive duty to re-enslave such persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument to perform it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses a commitment to justice and freedom, emphasizing the speaker's refusal to reverse emancipation.
In this powerful statement, Abraham Lincoln reaffirms his dedication to the principles of freedom and justice as outlined in the Emancipation Proclamation. He stresses that he will not retract the emancipation of those who are free and implies that any attempt to re-enslave individuals would need a different leader to carry out such an act, highlighting the moral stance against slavery.
Themes
EmancipationFreedomJusticeAbolitionLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at a civil rights rally could use this quote to emphasize the importance of maintaining freedoms.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Abraham LincolnRead
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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