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 think slavery is wrong, morally, and politically. I desire that it should be no further spread in these United States, and I should not object if it should gradually terminate in the whole Union.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a strong moral and political stance against slavery, advocating for its end.
Abraham Lincoln's quote reflects his deep ethical convictions regarding slavery, indicating that he views it as both a moral and political failure. He not only opposes the expansion of slavery in the United States but also envisions a future where slavery is abolished entirely, highlighting his commitment to justice and human rights.
Themes
SlaveryMoralityPoliticsFreedomJustice
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech on human rights to emphasize the importance of fighting against oppression.
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.
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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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