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Civil war Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“My paramount objective in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not to either save or destroy Slavery.” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“My paramount objective in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not to either save or destroy Slavery.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to Congress, 1863, United States

Lincoln emphasizes preserving the Union over the issue of slavery itself.

In simple terms: Saving the Union is the primary goal, not ending slavery.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize national unity above all.

Themes

civil war union slavery leadership

Mood

reflective serious

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • legislative debates
  • military strategy
  • public addresses

Key Concepts

national unity moral compromise

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it possible to preserve a union built on oppression?
  • How does this stance affect enslaved people?
A Different Perspective

Moral conflict of ignoring slavery’s injustice.

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