“Illinois surpasses every other spot of equal extent upon the face of the globe in fertility of soil and in the proportionable amount of the same which is sufficiently level for actual cultivation.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
Quote
“Illinois surpasses every other spot of equal extent upon the face of the globe in fertility of soil and in the proportionable amount of the same which is sufficiently level for actual cultivation.”
Explanation
In this quote, Lincoln praises the natural resources of Illinois, emphasizing its fertile soil and favorable geography for farming. Lincoln, having grown up on the frontier, was intimately familiar with the land, and his statement highlights the agricultural potential of Illinois, which was seen as one of the most productive states in the Union during his time. The phrase “equal extent” suggests that, compared to other regions of similar size, Illinois was particularly blessed with resources that made it ideal for agriculture. This sentiment reflects the importance of agriculture in Lincoln’s own life, as well as in the economy of the state and the broader Midwest, which was a key agricultural hub in the U.S.
Historically, this quote is rooted in the agrarian character of early Illinois, which played a major role in the state’s economy and political identity during Lincoln’s rise. Illinois was a young state at the time, having only become a state in 1818, but its fertile lands were a key draw for settlers, and its agricultural production helped drive the growth of the Western frontier. Lincoln, who spent much of his early life as a farmer and land surveyor, understood the importance of land quality in shaping the prosperity of the nation. His connection to the land is often reflected in his speeches and writings, where he expressed pride in the resources that helped sustain his family and community.
In modern terms, this quote underscores the enduring importance of land fertility and geographical features in shaping the economic development of a region. While Illinois is no longer the frontier it once was, its agricultural legacy continues to influence the state’s economy, particularly in the production of corn, soybeans, and wheat. This perspective on land and its productive capacity is still relevant in discussions about agricultural development, land conservation, and economic policy, particularly in regions that are heavily reliant on farming. Lincoln’s reflection on Illinois can also be seen as a reminder of how vital natural resources are in determining the prosperity of a nation or region.
