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; now, it is understood to be a successful one.”
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.
Recognize stability but evaluate relevance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- historical study
- civic education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the original form still effective?
- What changes are needed now?
Original form may hinder needed reforms.