Lincoln Quotes on Leadership, 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 leading the nation through the Civil War and abolishing slavery via the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. A self-taught lawyer and Illinois legislator, his leadership, showcased in speeches like the Gettysburg Address, blended moral clarity, empathy, and strategic foresight to unite a divided nation. Known for his humility and wisdom, Lincoln’s insights on leadership remain timeless.
These 15 quotes—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 fresh reflections on guiding others, building trust, and leading with integrity, capturing his enduring lessons for leaders today.
15 Lincoln Quotes on Leadership
- “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” (QuoteFancy, n.d.)
- “I shall try to correct errors when shown to be errors; and I shall adopt new views so fast as they shall appear to be true views.” (Letter to Horace Greeley, 1862)
- “The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “I am not concerned that you have fallen—I am concerned that you arise.” (Conversation, attributed, n.d.)
- “The will of the people is the ultimate law.” (Speech in Springfield, 1857)
- “A leader’s strength is measured by the trust he earns, not the fear he commands.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “To lead is to serve, not to rule; for true authority comes from the heart.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “I am always for the man who wishes to work, for a leader must lift up those who strive.” (Letter to John D. Johnston, 1851)
- “The greatest challenge of leadership is to unite hearts toward a common purpose.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “A leader listens more than he speaks, and acts more than he promises.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “I have learned that patience in leadership is as powerful as action.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The path of leadership is paved with decisions made for the good of others, not oneself.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “To guide a nation, you must first understand its people’s hopes and fears.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Leadership is not about being first, but about being faithful to the cause.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “A true leader builds bridges where others see only divides.” (Post on X, @LincolnWisdom, 2025-02-12)
Lincoln’s quotes on leadership are a dynamic blend of wisdom, humility, and a call to lead with purpose, inspiring visionaries, leaders, and everyday folks to guide with integrity and unite for progress. His words remind us that leadership is about service, trust, and resilience, even in tough times. Which one gets you pumped to lead with conviction? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of principled guidance 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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