“Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him work diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence when built.”
- 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
“Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him work diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence when built.”
Explanation
This quote highlights Abraham Lincoln’s belief in personal responsibility and the importance of self-reliance. Lincoln is advocating for a solution to social inequality, suggesting that instead of resorting to destruction or violence, individuals should focus on hard work and self-improvement to create their own stability. The message is a call for constructive action—that one should work to build, not tear down, and that this approach will eventually safeguard one’s own interests in the long term.
The historical context of this statement reflects Lincoln’s leadership during a time of national turmoil, particularly the period leading up to and during the Civil War. The nation was divided, with many in poverty and struggling due to economic hardship, especially in the Southern states. Lincoln’s appeal to work diligently and build something positive is indicative of his belief in the moral duty of individuals to improve their own circumstances through effort, rather than resorting to destructive means.
In modern times, this quote can be applied to social and economic challenges. It speaks to activism and social change, encouraging people to build communities and systems that are stable and just rather than resorting to violence or destructive behavior. It serves as a reminder that constructive solutions, grounded in personal responsibility and mutual respect, can contribute to creating a more peaceful and prosperous society. The call to “build one for himself” resonates with contemporary ideas of empowerment and self-determination in the face of adversity.
