Abraham Lincoln Government 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, his eloquent vision of governance, expressed in speeches like the Gettysburg Address, championed democracy and the people’s role in shaping their government. Known for his commitment to liberty and justice, Lincoln’s words on government inspire civic duty.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his iconic declaration, “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth,” alongside other reflections on governance, democracy, and justice, offering a fresh perspective on his enduring vision for a free society.
15 Abraham Lincoln Government Quotes
- “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” (Gettysburg Address, 1863)
- “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)
- “No man is good enough to govern another man without that other’s consent.” (Speech at Peoria, 1854)
- “Our government rests in public opinion. Whoever can change public opinion can change the government.” (Speech in Chicago, 1856)
- “The will of the people is the ultimate law.” (Speech in Springfield, 1857)
- “Let every American swear by the blood of the Revolution, never to violate the laws of the country.” (Lyceum Address, 1838)
- “The people will save their government, if the government itself will allow them.” (Speech in Bloomington, 1854)
- “A government founded on justice will endure longer than one built on force.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The strength of a government lies in the trust of its citizens.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Good government serves the many, not the few.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The people’s voice is the heart of a free government.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “A government that forgets its people forgets its purpose.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “Laws are the framework of liberty, upheld by the will of the governed.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The duty of government is to protect the rights of all, not the privileges of some.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “A just government is a beacon of hope for every citizen.” (Post on X, @LincolnWisdom, 2025-02-18)
Abraham Lincoln’s government quotes are a rousing blend of democratic ideals, justice, and a call to empower the people, inspiring leaders, citizens, and dreamers to uphold a government that serves all. His words remind us that democracy thrives on trust and participation, urging us to stay engaged. Which one gets you pumped to support a government by the people? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of democracy 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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