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 go for all sharing the privileges of the government, who assist in bearing its burdens. Consequently, I go for admitting all whites to the right of suffrage, who pay taxes or bear arms (by no means excluding females).
Interpretation
What this quote means
Abraham Lincoln advocates for a government that includes all taxpayers and those who support it in some way, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibilities in a democratic society.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln highlights the principle of inclusivity in democratic governance, suggesting that anyone who contributes to the state—whether through taxes or military service—should have a voice in its administration. He emphasizes the need for suffrage to be extended to all white citizens, including women, thus advocating for a broader representation in decision-making processes and recognizing the shared obligations among citizens.
Themes
SuffrageGovernmentTaxesInclusivityDemocracy
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about social equity and representation in governance.
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.
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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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