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Abraham Quote by Abraham Lincoln

“When someone asked Abraham Lincoln, after he was elected president, what he was going to do about his enemies, he replied, "I am going to destroy them. I am going to make them my friends."” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“When someone asked Abraham Lincoln, after he was elected president, what he was going to do about his enemies, he replied, "I am going to destroy them. I am going to make them my friends."”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

Source Historical anecdote: Abraham Lincoln, 1865

Lincoln chose to transform enemies into friends rather than destroy them.

In simple terms: Turn enemies into allies.

Key Takeaway

Practice forgiveness and reconciliation.

Themes

conflict resolution leadership forgiveness

Mood

inspirational hopeful

Type

historical leadership

When to use this quote

  • diplomacy
  • team building
  • post‑war reconstruction

Key Concepts

political strategy human psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can enemies truly become friends?
  • What risks exist in trusting former adversaries?
A Different Perspective

Forgiveness may be seen as weakness.

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