“Any people anywhere, being inclined and having the power, have the right to rise up, and shake off the existing government, and form a new one that suits them better. This is a most valuable – a most sacred right – a right, which we hope and believe, is to liberate the world.”
- 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
“Any people anywhere, being inclined and having the power, have the right to rise up, and shake off the existing government, and form a new one that suits them better. This is a most valuable – a most sacred right – a right, which we hope and believe, is to liberate the world.”
Explanation
In this statement, Lincoln expresses his belief in the fundamental right of people to self-determination, a concept that has shaped many democratic movements throughout history. He emphasizes that any group of people, if they have both the inclination and the power, should have the right to overthrow oppressive governments and establish a new system that better serves their needs. Lincoln framed this idea as not just a right, but a sacred duty, underscoring its universal importance, both for individual nations and for the broader goal of liberating the world from tyrannical or unjust rule.
Historically, this statement reflects Lincoln’s commitment to the ideals of freedom and self-government that were central to the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. Although the context of the quote is often associated with rebellions and secessionist movements, Lincoln’s intent was to champion the idea that people everywhere should have the autonomy to govern themselves and seek justice. The right to overthrow an unjust government was, in his view, an essential element of the broader struggle for freedom and democracy.
In modern times, this concept remains significant, particularly in the context of revolutions and national liberation movements. From the American Revolution to the Arab Spring, movements for freedom often invoke the right to rise up against oppressive regimes. Lincoln’s assertion continues to inspire those who seek political change and reform, reminding us of the sacred nature of personal and collective freedom. It also raises important questions about the balance of power, the legitimacy of government authority, and when it is justifiable for people to challenge their rulers.
