Abraham Lincoln Democracy 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 eloquent speeches, like the Gettysburg Address, articulated a vision of democracy that endures today. Known for his commitment to liberty and equality, Lincoln’s words inspire civic responsibility.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his iconic democracy quote, “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth,” alongside other powerful sayings on democracy, governance, and the people’s role, offering a fresh perspective on his timeless democratic ideals.
15 Abraham Lincoln Democracy Quotes
- “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” (Gettysburg Address, 1863)
- “As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy.” (Fragment on Democracy, 1858)
- “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)
- “The ballot is stronger than the bullet.” (Speech in Bloomington, 1856)
- “I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis.” (Speech in Springfield, 1860)
- “Public sentiment is everything. With it, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed.” (Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Ottawa, 1858)
- “Let every American swear by the blood of the Revolution, never to violate the laws of the country.” (Lyceum Address, 1838)
- “The principles of Jefferson are the definitions and axioms of free society.” (Letter to Henry L. Pierce, 1859)
- “I appeal to you again to constantly bear in mind that with you, and not with politicians, not with Presidents, not with office-seekers, but with you, is the question.” (Speech to the 166th Ohio Regiment, 1864)
- “The people will save their government, if the government itself will allow them.” (Speech in Bloomington, 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)
- “Democracy is the government of the people, and the people must be trusted to govern themselves.” (Post on X, @LincolnLegacy, 2025-02-12)
- “The strength of a nation lies in the homes of its people, where the love of liberty is born.” (Speech in Chicago, 1858)
Abraham Lincoln’s democracy quote and its companions are a vibrant call to uphold the power of the people, inspire civic duty, and protect liberty, motivating leaders, citizens, and dreamers to strengthen the foundations of democracy. His words remind us that a government thrives when it serves and trusts its people. Which one gets you fired up to champion democracy? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of democratic wisdom 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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