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 would save the Union. I would save it the shortest way under the Constitution. The sooner the national authority can be restored; the nearer the Union will be 'the Union as it was'.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Abraham Lincoln emphasizes the importance of preserving the Union in the most constitutional way possible, suggesting that restoring national authority is crucial for unity.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln expresses his commitment to saving the Union during a time of division, highlighting the need to do so within the framework of the Constitution. He implies that a swift restoration of national authority is essential for returning to the ideals and unity that the country was founded upon, reflecting his dedication to both constitutional principles and the preservation of the nation.
Themes
UnionConstitutionAuthorityRestorationLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on national unity, one could quote Lincoln to emphasize the importance of constitutional 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.
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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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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