Civil war Quote by Abraham Lincoln
“Negro equality, Fudge!! How long in the Government of a God great enough to make and maintain this Universe, shall there continue to be knaves to vend and fools to gulp, so low a piece of demagoguism as this?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1865 Address, United States Congress, 1865
Lincoln questions the persistence of corruption and demagoguery within a government that should uphold equality and moral authority.
In simple terms: Government can be corrupt despite lofty ideals.
Key Takeaway
Demand accountability and moral leadership.
Themes
equality
corruption
leadership
justice
Mood
critical
hopeful
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- Legislative reform
- civil rights advocacy
- public accountability
- ethical governance
Key Concepts
Demagoguery
political integrity
moral authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens ensure leaders act ethically?
- What mechanisms prevent demagoguery?
A Different Perspective
Even in a just system, self‑interest can undermine equality.
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