Political Quotes

Abraham Lincoln: “The fiery trial through which we pass will light us down, in honour or dishonour, to the latest generation.”

On the recordDecember 1, 1862
The fiery trial through which we pass will light us down, in honour or dishonour, to the latest generation.
Said by
Abraham Lincoln
Republican · Illinois

Editor's note · Context

In his 1862 Annual Message to Congress, Lincoln describes the Civil War as a profound test that will determine the historical reputation of his generation for all time.

Share

More from Abraham Lincoln

Apr 11, 1865

He said, with a great deal of emphasis, and with an expression of countenance I shall never forget: "When a man is sincerely penitent for his misdeeds, and gives satisfactory evidence of the same, he can safely be pardoned, and there is no…

gutenberg.org
Apr 11, 1865

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

gutenberg.org
Apr 11, 1865

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.

gutenberg.org
Apr 11, 1865

Important principles may and must be inflexible.

gutenberg.org

Other voices in this conversation