On the recordJanuary 27, 1837
Upon these let the proud fabric of freedom rest, as the rock of its basis; and as truly as has been said of the only greater institution, "the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Concluding his argument for reason as the foundation of liberty, Lincoln invoked a powerful biblical image to express the enduring strength of a nation built on such principles.
Share
More from Abraham Lincoln
Mar 4, 1865
Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish.
Apr 11, 1865
Grant that he desires the elective franchise, will he not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps towards it, than by running backward over them?
Apr 11, 1865
The question is, will it be wiser to take it as it is and help to improve it, or to reject and disperse it?
Apr 11, 1865
I believe that it is not only possible, but in fact easier, to do this without deciding or even considering whether these States have ever been out of the Union, than with it.
Other voices in this conversation
