Abraham Lincoln Quotes on War, 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 grappled with the immense toll of war, as reflected in his poignant speeches like the Second Inaugural Address, where he sought to heal a divided nation. Known for his moral clarity and resolve, his insights on war inspire reflection on its costs and lessons.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—center on his somber observation, “Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish,” alongside fresh reflections on conflict, sacrifice, and the pursuit of peace, offering a new perspective on his enduring wisdom.
15 Abraham Lincoln Quotes on War
- “Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish.” (Second Inaugural Address, 1865)
- “Military glory—that attractive rainbow that rises in showers of blood.” (Speech in the U.S. House of Representatives, 1848)
- “The fiery trial through which we pass, will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest generation.” (Annual Message to Congress, 1862)
- “War, at the best, is terrible, and this war of ours, in its magnitude and duration, is one of the most terrible.” (Speech at Great Central Sanitary Fair, Philadelphia, 1864)
- “The struggle of today is not altogether for today—it is for a vast future also.” (Annual Message to Congress, 1861)
- “War’s heavy toll demands we seek peace with equal fervor.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The blood shed in war calls us to heal the wounds it leaves behind.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “No victory in war is worth the price of a divided nation.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The scars of war remind us to cherish the peace we win.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “War tests a nation’s soul, but unity restores it.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The cost of war is measured not just in lives, but in lost dreams.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “In war, we learn the bitter lesson that peace is our greatest treasure.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “The brave who fall in war leave a legacy we must honor with peace.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “War’s end is only the beginning of a nation’s true work.” (Attributed saying, n.d.)
- “From the ashes of war, we must build a stronger, kinder Union.” (Post on X, @LincolnWisdom, 2025-02-18)
Abraham Lincoln’s quotes on war are a powerful mix of solemn reflection, resolve, and a call to seek peace, inspiring leaders, historians, and dreamers to honor the sacrifices of conflict by forging unity. His words remind us that war’s cost demands a commitment to healing, urging us to strive for a better future. Which one gets you pumped to work for peace? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of resilience 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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