I have never said anything to the contrary; but I hold, that, notwithstanding all this, there is no reason in the world why the negro is not entitled to all the natural rights enumerated in the Declaration of Independence,--the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
In a debate with Stephen Douglas, Lincoln affirmed that Black people are entitled to the natural rights outlined in the Declaration of Independence, despite other differences.
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More from Abraham Lincoln
If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference.
The question is, will it be wiser to take it as it is and help to improve it, or to reject and disperse it?
As a general rule I abstain from reading the reports of attacks upon myself, wishing not to be provoked by that to which I cannot properly offer an answer.
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