Political Quotes

On the recordMarch 4, 1861
If by the mere force of numbers a majority should deprive a minority of any clearly written constitutional right, it might, in a moral point of view, justify revolution--certainly would if such a right were a vital one.
Said by
Abraham Lincoln
Republican · Illinois

Editor's note · Context

From his first inaugural address, Lincoln acknowledged the moral justification for revolution if a majority were to deny a minority's vital, clearly written constitutional rights.

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More from Abraham Lincoln

Mar 26, 1865

Fourth. That the naval forces at Charleston and their commander on that station be invited to participate in the ceremonies of the occasion.

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Mar 3, 1865

Let us have faith that right makes might, and in that faith, let us, to the end, dare to do our duty as we understand it.

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Mar 15, 1865

Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them.

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Mar 16, 1865

Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.

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