“All the armies of Europe, Asia and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest; with a Buonaparte for a commander, could not by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the Blue Ridge, in a trial of a thousand years.”
- 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
“All the armies of Europe, Asia and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest; with a Buonaparte for a commander, could not by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the Blue Ridge, in a trial of a thousand years.”
Explanation
In this statement, Abraham Lincoln underscores the inherent strength and self-sufficiency of the United States, suggesting that no foreign power, no matter how mighty, could subjugate the country or infringe upon its territory. The mention of “all the armies of Europe, Asia, and Africa” combined with the wealth of the world and a brilliant general like Napoleon Buonaparte (misspelled as “Buonaparte” in the quote) illustrates the impossibility of conquering America through military force. Lincoln’s assertion reflects a deep faith in the resilience and independence of the United States, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
This quote was likely made in the context of America’s position in the world during the mid-19th century, a time when the United States was dealing with internal strife due to slavery and the threat of civil war. Lincoln was emphasizing that the strength of the nation did not rely on external powers but on the determination and will of the people. This was particularly relevant during the Civil War, when the Union faced secession from Southern states and conflict with the Confederacy. Lincoln’s words were meant to inspire confidence in the Union’s indestructibility and to remind citizens of the profound safety and security America enjoyed in its geographical isolation and vast natural resources.
In the modern context, this quote can be seen as a reflection of the strategic importance of national sovereignty and security. While military conflicts still occur, Lincoln’s words remind us of the unique position of the United States in terms of its geographic and economic strength, making it difficult for any external force to dominate or control its destiny. The phrase “a thousand years” implies that even time and persistence cannot easily alter the balance of power, as long as the nation remains united and determined. This can serve as a reminder that the greatest threats to a nation’s strength often come from within—through division or loss of purpose—rather than from external forces.
