Famous Quotes by Abraham Lincoln About 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, marked by speeches like the Gettysburg Address, showcased his integrity, empathy, and ability to unite a divided nation. Known for his principled governance, Lincoln’s insights on leadership remain timeless.
These 15 famous quotes about leadership—sourced from his speeches, letters, writings, and posts on X—offer a fresh collection of his renowned wisdom on guiding others, making decisions, and inspiring progress, capturing his enduring lessons for leaders everywhere.
15 Famous Quotes by Abraham Lincoln About Leadership
- “The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.” (QuoteFancy, n.d.)
- “I am a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn’t have the heart to let him down.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “It is better to be a little too free than to be not free enough.” (Speech in Edwardsville, 1858)
- “I do not think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “The strength of a nation lies in the homes of its people.” (Speech in Chicago, 1858)
- “Let us confidently hope that all will yet be well.” (Letter to George C. Latham, 1862)
- “I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice.” (Speech in Washington, D.C., 1865)
- “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)
- “We must not promise what we ought not, lest we be called on to perform what we cannot.” (Speech in Springfield, 1842)
- “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)
- “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)
- “It has been my experience that folks who have no vices have very few virtues.” (Goodreads, n.d.)
- “Let us strive on to finish the work we are in.” (Second Inaugural Address, 1865)
- “The fiery trial through which we pass, will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest generation.” (Annual Message to Congress, 1862)
Abraham Lincoln’s famous leadership quotes are a compelling mix of empathy, conviction, and practical wisdom, inspiring leaders, visionaries, and everyday folks to guide with integrity and unite for progress. His words remind us to lead with humility, learn from mistakes, and inspire through action, even in challenging times. Which one gets you fired up to lead with purpose? Drop it in the comments and keep Lincoln’s legacy of principled leadership 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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