Question of the Week: 11/13-11/19/17

On November 19, 1863, President Lincoln gave his Gettysburg Address. Although some weren’t impressed in 1863, the speech is now cherished by many folks and considered one of the most famous addresses in U.S. History.

Why is the Gettysburg Address important to you?



5 Responses to Question of the Week: 11/13-11/19/17

  1. To me, it is one of the penultimate manifestations of “man meets moment”. In other words, Lincoln nailed it! And a legacy to strive for, as a nation, was eloquently put into words.

    An aside here, but it is sad to point out that even these hallowed words are subject to revisionist history. Because Lincoln constructed 5 drafts of this, and because some of those omitted the term “under God”, certain elements within the media and political establishments took that as an opportunity to deny that the words “under God” were ever spoken. Of course, we know the truth of that, but sadly, there are those who always are determined to undermine that truth!

  2. It shows that a powerful message does not need to be excessively long. Edward Everrett’s comments about Lincoln saying in 2 minutes what Evertett said in 2 hours sims it up best for me. Quality not quantity.

  3. First of all I think it shows President Lincoln’s savvy as many who read it beforehand felt it should be much longer ( as they also told FDR maybe the most recognized speech in American history outside the Gettysburg Address ” your address is far too short and does not come close to meeting the crisis we haven’t ordered, a surprise attack of this magnitude is worthy of more than a few words”)I think FDR’S ” December 7th 1941 a day that will live in infamy” did a pretty good job. So I think first and foremost the chills by presidents are presidents and members there cabinet are just that members of their cabinet. I also think the most important aspect it’s the fact that despite the Declaration of Independence, the number of colored Troops that fought on the side of the colonies or not only given equal rights we’re still held in bondage by far America’s most disgusting chapter. And although it’s a long Road and has much further to go hopefully the speech help get the ball rolling in the right direction in terms of equal rights

  4. I AGREE WHOLEHEARTEDLY WITH MR PAULY.
    IT SEEMS IF THEY DO NOT LIKE IT THEY SIMPLY OMIT OR CHANGE IT . MAY GOD BLESS HISTORIANS AND THE USA

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