We all declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean the same thing. With some the word liberty may mean for each man to do as he pleases with himself, and the product of his labor; while with others, the same word many mean for some men to do as they please with other men, and the product of other men's labor. Here are two, not only different, but incompatible things, called by the same name - liberty. And it follows that each of the things is, by the respective parties, called by two different and incompatible names - liberty and tyranny.
Abraham LincolnCharacter is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.
Abraham LincolnThe dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew.
Abraham LincolnLamon, that speech won't scour. It is a flat failure and the people are disappointed.
Abraham LincolnI understand that it is a maxim of law, that a poor plea may be a good plea to a bad declaration.
Abraham Lincoln