Abraham Lincoln Power Quotes, 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), renowned for leading the nation through the Civil War and abolishing slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. A self-taught lawyer and Illinois legislator, his leadership, marked by eloquent speeches like the Gettysburg Address, reflected a deep understanding of power—its potential for good or harm, and the moral responsibility it entails. Known for his integrity and humility, Lincoln’s insights on power resonate today.
These 15 quotes about power—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his famous saying, “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power,” alongside other poignant reflections on authority, governance, and moral strength, offering a fresh perspective on his timeless wisdom.
15 Abraham Lincoln Power Quotes
- “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” (QuoteFancy, n.d.)
- “No man is good enough to govern another man without that other’s consent.” (Speech at Peoria, 1854)
- “The legitimate object of government is to do for a community of people whatever they need to have done, but cannot do at all, or cannot so well do, for themselves.” (Fragment on Government, 1854)
- “Let us do nothing through passion and ill temper.” (Speech to Chicago Sanitary Fair, 1863)
- “I claim not to have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have controlled me.” (Letter to Albert G. Hodges, 1864)
- “Force is all-conquering, but its victories are short-lived.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “The power confided in me will be used to hold, occupy, and possess the property and places belonging to the Government.” (First Inaugural Address, 1861)
- “With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed.” (Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Ottawa, 1858)
- “We must not promise what we ought not, lest we be called on to perform what we cannot.” (Speech in Springfield, 1842)
- “The strength of a nation lies in the homes of its people.” (Speech in Chicago, 1858)
- “I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice.” (Speech in Washington, D.C., 1865)
- “The will of the people is the ultimate law.” (Speech in Springfield, 1857)
- “Authority is to be respected when it is exercised with justice, not when it demands blind obedience.” (Speech at Bloomington, 1856)
- “Power is a trust, not a prize; it must be wielded for the good of all, not the glory of one.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “True power lies not in ruling others, but in serving them.” (Post on X, @LincolnWisdom, 2025-02-12)
Abraham Lincoln’s power quotes are a compelling blend of moral clarity, humility, and a call to wield authority with justice, inspiring leaders, citizens, and dreamers to use power responsibly and for the common good. His words remind us that true strength lies in service and integrity, urging us to lead with compassion. Which one gets you fired up to handle power with care? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of principled leadership 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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