President lincoln Quote by Jon Meacham
““When Lincoln was running for the House of Representatives from Illinois, he was charged with being “a scoffer at religion,” wrote the historian William J. Wolf, because he belonged to no church. During the campaign, Lincoln attended a sermon delivered by his opponent in the race, Reverend Peter Cartwright, a Methodist evangelist. At a dramatic moment in his performance, Cartwright said, “All who do not wish to go to hell will stand.” Only Lincoln kept his seat. “May I inquire of you, Mr. Lincoln, where you are going?” the minister asked, glowering. “I am going to Congress” was the dry reply. When he was president, Lincoln also liked the story of a purported exchange about him and Jefferson Davis between two Quaker women on a train: “I think Jefferson will succeed,” the first said. “Why does thee think so?” “Because Jefferson is a praying man.” “And so is Abraham a praying man.” “Yes, but the Lord will think Abraham is joking.””
About This Quote
Lincoln’s political life involved religious skepticism and witty exchanges, showing his pragmatic approach.
In simple terms: Lincoln was skeptical of religion but used it strategically.
Key Takeaway
Understand context before judging beliefs.
Themes
politics
religion
pragmatism
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- campaigns
- debates
- historical education
Key Concepts
historical analysis
public perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How did Lincoln’s skepticism shape his leadership?
- What role does humor play in political discourse?
A Different Perspective
His personal beliefs may have been more nuanced than public anecdotes suggest.
