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Belief Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“A house divided against itself cannot stand." I believe this government cannot endure, permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved — I do not expect the house to fall — but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other.” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“A house divided against itself cannot stand." I believe this government cannot endure, permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved — I do not expect the house to fall — but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, 1863

A nation divided cannot survive; unity is essential for lasting freedom and stability.

In simple terms: Division leads to collapse.

Key Takeaway

Strive for unity.

Themes

unity freedom political stability

Mood

somber hopeful

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • social movements
  • legislative debates

Key Concepts

civil war national identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What compromises are necessary for unity?
  • How does division affect progress?
A Different Perspective

Compromise may require sacrificing some ideals.

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