Admitting Quote by Abraham Lincoln
“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).”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, 1863
Lincoln argues that voting rights should extend to all who contribute to society, not just a privileged few.
In simple terms: Voting should be for those who pay taxes or serve.
Key Takeaway
Grant suffrage to all contributors.
Themes
democracy
equality
citizenship
Mood
reflective
determined
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- taxpaying citizens
- military service
- women's suffrage
- civil rights movements
Key Concepts
social contract
political rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Who is excluded from this definition of contribution?
- How can we broaden the notion of civic duty?
A Different Perspective
Excludes those who cannot serve due to disability or age.
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