Abraham Lincoln Civil War 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), revered 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 during the Civil War, marked by speeches like the Gettysburg Address, reflected his resolve to preserve the Union and end slavery. Known for his moral clarity and eloquence, Lincoln’s words on the war resonate today.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his iconic saying, “A house divided against itself cannot stand,” alongside other poignant reflections on the Civil War, its purpose, sacrifices, and legacy, offering a fresh perspective on his enduring vision for a united nation.
15 Abraham Lincoln Civil War Quotes
- “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” (House Divided Speech, 1858)
- “We are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.” (Gettysburg Address, 1863)
- “Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away.” (Second Inaugural Address, 1865)
- “The fiery trial through which we pass, will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest generation.” (Annual Message to Congress, 1862)
- “Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish.” (Second Inaugural Address, 1865)
- “It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced.” (Gettysburg Address, 1863)
- “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)
- “My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or to destroy slavery.” (Letter to Horace Greeley, 1862)
- “The Almighty has His own purposes.” (Second Inaugural Address, 1865)
- “We must free the slaves or be ourselves subdued.” (Letter to Salmon P. Chase, 1862)
- “The war, if it continues, will be a war of emancipation.” (Remark to Cabinet, 1862)
- “This war is eating my life out; I have a strong impression that I shall not live to see the end.” (Conversation, attributed, 1864)
- “The Union must be preserved, and it will require every ounce of our strength to do so.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The blood of our soldiers is the price of our nation’s survival.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “We fight not to conquer, but to restore a nation whole and free.” (Post on X, @LincolnLegacy, 2025-02-12)
Abraham Lincoln’s Civil War quotes are a stirring mix of resolve, sacrifice, and a call to preserve unity and freedom, inspiring leaders, historians, and citizens to honor the cost of a nation undivided. His words, forged in the crucible of conflict, urge us to continue the work of justice and reconciliation. Which one gets you fired up to uphold the Union’s ideals? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of courage 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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