Abraham Lincoln's Quotes

Abraham Lincoln
( 12 Feb. 1809 - 15 Apr. 1865 )

Abraham Lincln's Notable Quotes With Explanations

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, emerges from the pages of history as an iconic figure whose life story encapsulates the very essence of the American dream. Born into poverty on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Hardin County (now LaRue County), Kentucky, Lincoln's early years were defined by adversity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Largely self-educated, he transformed himself from a frontier youth with limited formal education into a self-taught lawyer known for his eloquence and principled stance against slavery. Lincoln's political journey, marked by his election to the presidency in 1860, coincided with one of the nation's darkest hours—the Civil War. His leadership during this tumultuous period, characterized by the Emancipation Proclamation and the Gettysburg Address, solidified his place in history as a statesman of rare wisdom and moral clarity. Beyond the political arena, Lincoln's personal qualities, including humility, empathy, and an unyielding commitment to justice, continue to resonate, making him a revered figure whose legacy extends far beyond the confines of his time.

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Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.

   Explanation: This line is from Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered during the American Civil War. It emphasizes the idea that a government should be based on the will and participation of the people it serves. Lincoln believed in a democracy where the government is derived from and accountable to the citizens.

I'm a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn't have the heart to let him down.

   Explanation: Lincoln acknowledges the importance of supportive relationships and mentors in personal and professional success. This quote reflects his humility and gratitude towards those who contributed to his achievements.

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.

   Explanation: Lincoln speaks to the idea that true character is revealed when a person is entrusted with authority. Power can be a challenging test, as it exposes one's values, integrity, and ability to handle responsibility without abusing it.

Whatever you are, be a good one.

   Explanation: Lincoln believed in the importance of doing one's best in any role or position. This quote encourages individuals to strive for excellence and integrity, regardless of their profession or status.

Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.

   Explanation: Lincoln expresses the moral principle that freedom and equality are universal rights. He highlights the hypocrisy of those who would deny others the same liberties they seek for themselves, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human rights.

I walk slowly, but I never walk backward.

   Explanation: This quote reflects Lincoln's determination and persistence. He acknowledges that progress may be slow, but it should always be forward-moving. It emphasizes the importance of steady and consistent effort in achieving long-term goals.

The best way to predict the future is to create it.

   Explanation: Lincoln encourages proactive and visionary thinking. Instead of passively waiting for the future to unfold, he advocates taking initiative and actively shaping one's destiny through thoughtful actions and decisions.

You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.

   Explanation: Lincoln speaks to the idea that deceit and dishonesty may have temporary success, but eventually, the truth will prevail. This quote underscores the importance of honesty and integrity in leadership and public life.

I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to what light I have.

   Explanation: Lincoln emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's principles and values, regardless of the outcome. This quote reflects his commitment to integrity and moral character.

The philosophy of the schoolroom in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next.

   Explanation: Lincoln recognizes the profound influence of education on shaping the future. He suggests that the ideas and values imparted in schools play a crucial role in shaping the beliefs and governance of future generations.

Those who look for the bad in people will surely find it.

   Explanation: This quote reflects Lincoln's understanding of human nature. It suggests that if one focuses solely on the negative aspects of others, one will inevitably find flaws. It encourages a more balanced and understanding perspective.

I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends.

   Explanation: Lincoln believed in the power of reconciliation and turning adversaries into allies. This quote reflects his diplomatic approach to conflict resolution and the importance of fostering unity for the greater good.

Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.

   Explanation: Lincoln underscores the significance of preparation and planning. This quote encourages a thoughtful and strategic approach to tasks, emphasizing the importance of readiness and skill development.

We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorns have roses.

   Explanation: Lincoln's quote highlights the power of perspective. It encourages people to focus on the positive aspects of a situation rather than dwelling on the negatives. It reflects his optimistic outlook on life.

I do the very best I know how the very best I can, and I mean to keep on doing so until the end.

   Explanation: Lincoln expresses his commitment to continuous improvement and giving his best effort. This quote reflects his dedication to personal growth and his sense of duty to keep striving for excellence.

You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.

   Explanation: Lincoln emphasizes the importance of facing challenges and responsibilities head-on rather than avoiding or postponing them. This quote reflects his pragmatic approach to leadership and decision-making.

I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts.

   Explanation: Lincoln expresses his trust in the public's ability to handle difficult situations when provided with accurate information. He underscores the importance of transparency and truth in governance.

I desire so to conduct the affairs of this administration that if at the end... I have lost every other friend on earth, I shall at least have one friend left, and that friend shall be down inside me.

   Explanation: Lincoln emphasizes the importance of self-respect and inner integrity. Regardless of external challenges or criticisms, maintaining personal principles and moral character is crucial.

Character is like a tree and reputation is like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.

   Explanation: Lincoln draws a distinction between character and reputation. Character, like a tree, is the essence of a person, while reputation is the perception of others. He suggests that it's more important to focus on building a strong character than worrying about how one is perceived.

The better part of one's life consists of his friendships.

   Explanation: Lincoln values the importance of meaningful relationships. This quote highlights the significance of friendships in contributing to a fulfilling and rich life.

I want it said of me by those who knew me best, that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow.

   Explanation: Lincoln expresses his desire to contribute positively to the world. This metaphorical statement signifies his intention to address problems (thistles) and promote growth and improvement (planting flowers).

My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.

   Explanation: Lincoln acknowledges the humility and uncertainty in aligning oneself with divine principles. This quote reflects his deep sense of spirituality and the recognition that one should strive to be in harmony with higher moral values.

You can tell the greatness of a man by what makes him angry.

   Explanation: Lincoln suggests that understanding a person's triggers and what evokes anger can reveal a lot about their character. It emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness.

Every man is said to have his peculiar ambition. I have no other so great as that of being truly esteemed of my fellow men, by rendering myself worthy of their esteem.

   Explanation: Lincoln reveals his ambition to earn the respect and esteem of others through personal merit. This quote reflects his commitment to earning admiration through virtuous actions.

In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.

   Explanation: Lincoln emphasizes the quality of life over its duration. This quote encourages a focus on living fully, making the most of each moment, and creating meaningful experiences.

I don't like that man. I must get to know him better.

   Explanation: Lincoln exemplifies an open-minded approach to people he might initially dislike. This quote reflects his belief in understanding others and seeking common ground, fostering better relationships through familiarity.

We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorns have roses.

   Explanation: Lincoln's quote underscores the power of perspective. It encourages choosing optimism and finding joy during challenges, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.

The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just.

   Explanation: Lincoln speaks to the courage needed to support just causes, even in the face of potential failure. This quote reflects his commitment to principles and his willingness to endure hardships for a righteous purpose.

I am not a learned man, but I have good common sense.

   Explanation: Lincoln values practical wisdom and common sense over formal education. This quote reflects his humility and belief in the importance of practical, down-to-earth reasoning in decision-making.

When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That's my religion.

   Explanation: Lincoln emphasizes a moral compass based on personal responsibility. This quote reflects his belief that ethical actions contribute to one's sense of well-being, suggesting a simple and profound approach to spirituality.

The best way to destroy your enemy is to make him your friend.

   Explanation: Lincoln advocates for reconciliation and turning adversaries into allies. This quote underscores the transformative power of diplomacy and the potential for understanding to overcome hostility.

I am a slow walker, but I never walk backward.

   Explanation: Lincoln uses the metaphor of walking to convey his persistence and commitment to progress. This quote underscores the importance of continuous forward movement, even if at a slow pace.

Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.

   Explanation: Lincoln suggests that happiness is often a matter of one's mindset and outlook. This quote emphasizes the role of personal attitude and choice in determining one's level of contentment.

I am rather inclined to silence, and whether that be wise or not, it is at least more unusual nowadays to find a man who can hold his tongue than to find one who cannot.

   Explanation: Lincoln reflects on the rarity of thoughtful silence in a world where many speak without restraint. This quote highlights the value he places on measured speech and the ability to choose words wisely.

I don't know who my grandfather was; I am much more concerned to know what his grandson will be.

   Explanation: Lincoln focuses on the potential for personal growth and the impact individuals can have on future generations. This quote underscores the importance of one's own actions and legacy.

All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.

   Explanation: Lincoln expresses deep gratitude and acknowledgment of the profound influence his mother had on his life. This quote reflects his appreciation for maternal guidance and nurturing.

If you look for the bad in people expecting to find it, you surely will.

   Explanation: Lincoln emphasizes the power of expectations in shaping perceptions. This quote encourages a more positive and open-minded approach to understanding others, highlighting the impact of one's mindset on judgment.

No man is good enough to govern another man without that other's consent.

   Explanation: Lincoln asserts the importance of consent and participatory governance. This quote reflects his commitment to democratic principles and the idea that authority should be derived from the will of the governed.

When you have got an elephant by the hind legs and he is trying to run away, it's best to let him run.

   Explanation: Lincoln uses a humorous metaphor to convey the idea that sometimes, in dealing with challenges, it's better to allow things to unfold rather than resist. This quote reflects a pragmatic approach to problem-solving.

Tact is the ability to describe others as they see themselves.

   Explanation: Lincoln highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in social interactions. This quote reflects his diplomatic skill and the ability to navigate relationships by considering others' perspectives.

The profound wisdom encapsulated in Abraham Lincoln's quotes transcends the confines of his era, resonating as timeless truths that continue to inspire and guide individuals today. Lincoln's eloquence and insight reveal a leader deeply committed to democratic principles, justice, and the enduring values that define the American spirit. Through his words, he imparts timeless lessons on leadership, resilience, and the importance of moral clarity in the face of adversity. Lincoln's legacy lives on in the enduring echoes of his speeches, a testament to the power of language to shape hearts and minds. As we reflect on his words, we find a wellspring of guidance, urging us to strive for a more just, united, and compassionate world. The brilliance of Lincoln's quotes lies not only in their historical significance but in their ability to transcend time, offering a source of wisdom that remains as relevant and impactful today as it did during his presidency.