Abraham Lincoln Quotations, born February 12, 1809, in Hodgenville, Kentucky, and assassinated on April 15, 1865, in Washington, D.C., was the 16th President of the United States (1861–1865), celebrated for steering the nation through the Civil War and abolishing slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. A self-educated lawyer from Illinois, his eloquent speeches, including the Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address, embody American ideals of freedom, equality, and democracy. Known for his wit, humility, and moral clarity, Lincoln’s words continue to inspire.
These 15 quotations—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—offer a fresh perspective on his insights into leadership, justice, perseverance, and humanity, showcasing his timeless wisdom and enduring legacy.
15 Abraham Lincoln Quotations
- “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” (Gettysburg Address, 1863)
- “I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true.” (Letter to George E. Pickett, 1864)
- “The better part of one’s life consists of his friendships.” (Letter to Joseph Gillespie, 1849)
- “As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy.” (Fragment on Democracy, 1858)
- “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies.” (First Inaugural Address, 1861)
- “If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.” (Letter to Albert G. Hodges, 1864)
- “Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing.” (Letter to Isham Reavis, 1855)
- “I claim not to have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have controlled me.” (Letter to Albert G. Hodges, 1864)
- “When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next.” (QuoteFancy, n.d.)
- “Let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds.” (Second Inaugural Address, 1865)
- “I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “Public sentiment is everything. With it, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed.” (Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Ottawa, 1858)
- “Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.” (Post on X, @LincolnLegacy, 2025-02-12)
Abraham Lincoln’s quotations are a vibrant mix of moral clarity, wit, and a call to uphold justice and unity, inspiring leaders, dreamers, and citizens to act with integrity and courage. His words remain a beacon for democracy and equality, urging us to shape a better future. Which one lights a fire in you to stand firm for what’s right? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of wisdom alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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