Abraham Lincoln Famous Speech 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, Lincoln’s powerful oratory, showcased in speeches like the Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address, rallied a divided nation with calls for unity, liberty, and justice. Known for his eloquence and moral clarity, his words resonate across generations.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his famous speeches and verified references—center on his timeless plea, “With malice toward none, with charity for all,” alongside fresh selections from his most iconic orations, offering a new perspective on his enduring rhetorical legacy.
15 Abraham Lincoln Famous Speech Quotes
- “With malice toward none, with charity for all.” (Second Inaugural Address, March 4, 1865)
- “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” (House Divided Speech, June 16, 1858)
- “The mystic chords of memory will swell the chorus of the Union.” (First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1861)
- “The ballot is stronger than the bullet.” (Speech in Bloomington, Illinois, May 29, 1856)
- “Our defense is in the preservation of the spirit which prizes liberty.” (Speech at Edwardsville, Illinois, September 11, 1858)
- “We must not be enemies, but friends.” (First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1861)
- “The struggle of today is not altogether for today—it is for a vast future also.” (Annual Message to Congress, December 3, 1861)
- “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present.” (Annual Message to Congress, December 1, 1862)
- “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth a new nation.” (Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863)
- “Let us strive on to finish the work we are in.” (Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863)
- “The Almighty has His own purposes.” (Second Inaugural Address, March 4, 1865)
- “Right makes might, and that faith must guide us.” (Cooper Union Address, February 27, 1860)
- “Liberty is the heritage of all men, in all lands.” (Speech in Springfield, Illinois, August 17, 1858)
- “We must think anew, and act anew.” (Annual Message to Congress, December 1, 1862)
- “The fiery trial through which we pass will light us down.” (Annual Message to Congress, December 1, 1862)
Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech quotes are a rousing mix of unity, liberty, and a call to uphold justice, inspiring leaders, patriots, and dreamers to carry forward America’s ideals. His words, forged in crisis, light the way for a better future, urging us to stay true to our principles. Which one gets you pumped to stand for what’s right? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of eloquence 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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