Bigotry Quote by Abraham Lincoln
“As a nation, we began by declaring that 'all men are created equal.' We now practically read it 'all men are created equal, except negroes.' When the Know-Nothings get control, it will read 'all men are created equal, except negroes, and foreigners, and Catholics.' When it comes to this I should prefer emigrating to some country where they make no pretense of loving liberty – to Russia, for instance, where despotism can be taken pure, and without the base alloy of hypocrisy.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln, 1863 (paraphrased)
A critique of the betrayal of equality ideals, warning of expanding exclusions under populist movements.
In simple terms: Equality promises are eroded by prejudice.
Key Takeaway
Guard against widening exclusions.
Themes
politics
equality
racism
populism
Mood
somber
critical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- civil rights activism
- policy analysis
- education on history
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Social contract
historical revisionism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies uphold equality amid division?
- What role does rhetoric play in shaping policy?
A Different Perspective
The quote reflects personal bias and may oversimplify complex history.
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