If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it.

The working men are the basis of all governments, for the plain reason that they are the most numerous.

I am struggling to maintain the government, not to overthrow it. I am struggling especially to prevent others from overthrowing it.

No man has a right to judge Andrew Johnson in any respect who has not suffered as much and done as much as he for the Nation's sake.

As long as the Almighty permitted intelligent men, created in his image and likeness, to fight in public and kill each other while the world looks on approvingly, it's not for me to deprive the chickens of the same privilege.

I would like to speak in terms of praise due to the many brave officers and soldiers who have fought in the cause of the war.

A nation may be said to consist of its territory, its people, and its laws. The territory is the only part which is of certain durability.