“To the best of my judgment, I have labored for, and not against, the Union. As I have not felt, so I have not expressed any harsh sentiment towards our Southern brethren. I have constantly declared, as I really believed, the only difference between them and us is the difference of circumstances.”
- 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
“To the best of my judgment, I have labored for, and not against, the Union. As I have not felt, so I have not expressed any harsh sentiment towards our Southern brethren. I have constantly declared, as I really believed, the only difference between them and us is the difference of circumstances.”
Explanation
In this statement, Abraham Lincoln highlights his dedication to preserving the Union during the Civil War, stressing that his efforts were always aimed at maintaining national unity rather than punishing the Southern states. The key idea here is that Lincoln did not view the conflict as one of moral superiority over the South, but rather as a tragic necessity due to the secession of the Southern states. He acknowledges the humanity of both sides, underscoring that the key difference between the North and South was one of circumstances, particularly the institution of slavery, rather than any inherent moral inferiority on the part of Southerners.
Historically, this quote is an example of Lincoln’s conciliatory tone toward the South, which stood in contrast to the more radical abolitionist calls for punishment. Lincoln’s leadership was characterized by a desire to heal the nation and reconcile after the Civil War, even though his primary goal was to preserve the Union. His approach was pragmatic and strategic; he sought to avoid alienating Southern Unionists and hoped for a peaceful reunification after the war. This philosophy is reflected in his second inaugural address, where he famously called for “malice toward none” and “charity for all,” signaling his intention to rebuild the nation without resentment.
In a modern context, Lincoln’s words can be seen as an example of empathy and reconciliation in leadership. His statement urges us to understand historical context and to refrain from judgment that overlooks the complexity of people’s actions and decisions. In the face of modern divisions—whether political, racial, or ideological—Lincoln’s approach serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and dialogue in overcoming conflict, recognizing that while our differences are significant, they are often shaped by circumstances rather than intrinsic qualities.
