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Establishment Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“That our government should have been maintained in its original form from its establishment until now is not much to be wondered at. It had many props to support it through that period, which now are decayed and crumbled away. Through that period, it was felt by all to be an undecided experiment…” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“That our government should have been maintained in its original form from its establishment until now is not much to be wondered at. It had many props to support it through that period, which now are decayed and crumbled away. Through that period, it was felt by all to be an undecided experiment; now, it is understood to be a successful one.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Speech: Unknown, possibly misattributed

The quote suggests that a government’s original structure persisted because it was successful despite decay of its supports.

In simple terms: Government stayed unchanged because it worked.

Key Takeaway

Recognize stability but evaluate relevance.

Themes

politics history institutionalism

Mood

reflective critical

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • historical study
  • civic education

Key Concepts

governance legacy change resistance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is the original form still effective?
  • What changes are needed now?
A Different Perspective

Original form may hinder needed reforms.

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