Freedom is the last, best hope of earth.

Oh, that [his Thanksgiving Message] is some of Seward's nonsense, and it pleases the fools.

It is not merely for to-day, but for all time to come that we should perpetuate for our children's children this great and free government, which we have enjoyed all our lives.

I claim not to have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have controlled me.

This is essentially a people's contest... whose leading object is to elevate the condition of men - to lift artificial weights from all shoulders - to clear the paths of laudable pursuit for all - to afford all, an unfettered start and a fair chance, in the race of life.

In regard to this Great Book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man.

The Constitution is not a suicide pact.