Delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, during the dedication of the Soldiers National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Described by Senator Charles Sumner as a "monumental act" and contrary to Lincoln’s own belief, the speech was immediately noted and has been remembered through history.
Copies of the Address
Five known copies in Lincoln's handwriting, each named after the recipient: Nicolay, Hay, Everett, Bancroft, and Bliss.
Differences exist between copies due to their purpose and timing of writing.
Bliss Copy
Most often reproduced and displayed on the Lincoln Memorial.
Only signed and dated by Lincoln.
Nicolay Copy
Considered the "first draft."
Written on White House stationery and completed in Gettysburg.
Hay Copy
Contains Lincoln's handwritten changes.
Owned by the Library of Congress.
Everett Copy
Requested by Edward Everett for fundraising purposes.
Housed at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Bancroft Copy
Requested for lithographic engraving but had to be replaced by the Bliss Copy.
Owned by Cornell University.
Key Themes of the Speech
Equality and Liberty: Reflects on the founding of the nation “four score and seven years ago” dedicated to liberty and equality.
Civil War Context: Acknowledges the Civil War as a test of the nation’s endurance.
Dedication of the Battlefield: Honors those who sacrificed their lives at Gettysburg.
Unfinished Work: Emphasizes dedication to the ongoing cause of freedom and equality.
Enduring Government: Advocates for a government "of the people, by the people, for the people."
Legacy and Impact
Revered as one of the most significant speeches in American history.
Continues to be analyzed and commemorated for its powerful message and brevity.
Additional Resources
Various related links and books provide more context and analysis of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and the surrounding historical events.
Note on Text
Speech text is public domain; additional content is copyrighted by Abraham Lincoln Online, 2020.