“I think that slavery is wrong, morally, socially and politically. I desire that it should be no further spread in these United States, and I should not object if it should gradually terminate in the whole Union.”
- 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.
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Quote
“I think that slavery is wrong, morally, socially and politically. I desire that it should be no further spread in these United States, and I should not object if it should gradually terminate in the whole Union.”
Explanation
In this statement, Abraham Lincoln expresses his strong moral opposition to slavery, identifying it as a wrong on multiple levels—morally, socially, and politically. He outlines his belief that slavery should not be allowed to expand into new territories or states, but also hints at a more gradual approach to abolition, emphasizing that he would not oppose the eventual end of slavery throughout the entire Union. This reflects his evolving stance on the issue, which balanced both moral conviction and the political realities of his time.
Historically, this quote aligns with Lincoln’s views during the early part of his political career, especially before the outbreak of the Civil War. While he was firmly against the expansion of slavery, his views on abolition were more cautious and pragmatic. At this point, Lincoln was primarily focused on preventing the further spread of slavery into new states and territories, which he saw as a critical step to limiting its power. The idea of a gradual end to slavery, rather than immediate emancipation, was a stance that many in the North, including Lincoln himself, considered more politically feasible at the time.
In modern contexts, Lincoln’s position highlights the complexity of political leadership when confronting deeply entrenched social issues. It underscores the tension between moral principles and the necessity of practical, incremental change. Lincoln’s approach continues to be a point of reflection for leaders today, particularly in situations where systemic injustice exists, and immediate solutions are not always possible. His call for a gradual resolution mirrors ongoing efforts around the world to address historical wrongs in ways that balance justice with political feasibility.
