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Divine right Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“Two principles have stood face-to-face from the beginning of time; and they will ever continue to struggle. The one is the common right of humanity and the other the divine right of kings.” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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““Two principles have stood face-to-face from the beginning of time; and they will ever continue to struggle. The one is the common right of humanity and the other the divine right of kings.””

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Speech: Gettysburg Address, 1863

Human rights and divine monarchy are opposing forces that will forever clash.

In simple terms: Human rights vs. divine kingship conflict.

Key Takeaway

Support universal rights.

Themes

politics human rights authority

Mood

reflective serious

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • civil rights movements
  • educational curricula
  • international law

Key Concepts

Social contract theocratic power

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies reconcile these forces?
  • What limits should divine authority have?
A Different Perspective

Balancing rights and authority is complex.

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