I have no purpose to introduce political and social equality between the white and black races. There is physical difference between the two which, in my judgment, will probably forever forbid their living together upon the footing of perfect equality, and inasmuch as it becomes a necessity that there must be a difference, I, as well as Judge Douglas, am in favor of the race to which I belong having the superior position.

I was born and have ever remaind [sic] in the most humble walks of life.

He who does something at the head of one Regiment, will eclipse him who does nothing at the head of a hundred.

Kings had always been involving and impoverishing their people in wars, pretending generally, if not always, that the good of the people was the object

The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise to the occasion. We cannot escape history. We will be remembered in spite of ourselves. The fiery trial through which we pass will light us down in honour or dishonour, to the last generation. We shall nobly save, or meanly lose, our last best hope of Earth.

I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.

I will either be America's greatest president or its last.