Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.

The worst thing you can do for those you love is the things they could and should do themselves.

I ... ran for Legislature [in 1832] ... and was beaten-the only time I have been beaten by the people.

I do not allow myself to suppose that either the convention or the League, have concluded to decide that I am either the greatest or the best man in America, but rather they have concluded it is not best to swap horses while crossing the river, and have further concluded that I am not so poor a horse that they might not make a botch of it in trying to swap.

And upon this act [Emancipation Proclamation]...I invoke...the gracious favor of Almighty God.

No man is good enough to govern another man without the other's consent.

Human-nature will not change.