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Can not Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“Near eighty years ago we began by declaring that all men are created equal; but now from that beginning we have run down to the other declaration, that for SOME men to enslave OTHERS is a "sacred right of self-government." These principles can not stand together. They are as opposite as God and…” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“Near eighty years ago we began by declaring that all men are created equal; but now from that beginning we have run down to the other declaration, that for SOME men to enslave OTHERS is a "sacred right of self-government." These principles can not stand together. They are as opposite as God and mammon; and whoever holds to the one, must despise the other.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, 1863

Lincoln argues that equality and slavery are mutually exclusive principles that cannot coexist.

In simple terms: Equality and slavery clash.

Key Takeaway

Reject slavery, uphold equality.

Themes

equality slavery morality politics

Mood

reflective serious

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • civil rights activism
  • legal reform
  • education
  • public policy

Key Concepts

Human rights justice civil war

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we reconcile past ideals with present realities?
  • What policies best embody true equality?
A Different Perspective

The quote reflects historical context; modern nuances differ.

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