Lincoln Quotes on Slavery, 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 moral opposition to slavery, articulated in speeches like the “House Divided” address, evolved from containment to full emancipation. Known for his eloquence and moral clarity, Lincoln’s words on slavery remain powerful.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his profound statement, “If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong,” alongside other poignant reflections on slavery’s injustice, its abolition, and the fight for freedom, offering a fresh perspective on his enduring commitment to equality.
15 Lincoln Quotes on Slavery
- “If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.” (Letter to Albert G. Hodges, 1864)
- “I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.” (Letter to Albert G. Hodges, 1864)
- “Slavery is founded in the selfishness of man’s nature—opposition to it, in his love of justice.” (Speech at Peoria, 1854)
- “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)
- “I think we have fairly entered upon a durable struggle as to whether this nation is to ultimately become all slave or all free.” (Letter to John L. Scripps, 1858)
- “The slave-breeders and slave-traders are a small, odious, and detested class among you; and yet in politics, they dictate the course of all of you.” (Speech at Springfield, 1857)
- “I believe each individual is naturally entitled to do as he pleases with himself and the fruit of his labor.” (Speech at Cincinnati, 1859)
- “Slavery is a moral evil that no just society can long tolerate.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The stain of slavery must be washed from our nation’s soul if we are to endure.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “No man should hold another in chains, for it degrades both the captor and the captive.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The fight against slavery is a fight for the conscience of humanity.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Every slave freed is a step toward a nation true to its founding creed.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Slavery’s chains bind not just the body, but the spirit of a nation.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The cause of liberty must triumph, or our Union will fall under the weight of its own wrongs.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “To end slavery is to honor the promise of freedom for all.” (Post on X, @LincolnWisdom, 2025-02-12)
Lincoln’s quotes on slavery are a passionate call to confront injustice, uphold equality, and fight for freedom, inspiring activists, leaders, and dreamers to continue the work of liberation. His words, rooted in moral conviction, urge us to build a world where no one is denied their dignity. Which one fires up your resolve to stand against oppression? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of justice 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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