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Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

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Abraham Lincoln's first inaugural address was delivered on Monday, March 4, 1861, as part of his taking the oath of office for his first term as the sixteenth President of the United States. Abraham Lincoln’s first inaugural address, may not be considered one of his most famous speeches, however, it stands to reason that it is one of the more important speeches given in history. Upon entering the presidency Lincoln’s primary focus was on reuniting the people of the United States, which is directly expressed in his inaugural address. Before the election slavery had divided the nation, causing an uproar and rebellion within several of the southern states which wished to continue slavery. The country was on the brink of civil war and they needed …show more content…

In his first inaugural address Lincoln conveyed the type of firm and concise communication he became famous for. Lincoln stated his intended policies for his presidency were “to preserve, protect, and defend the United States Constitution", these policies would be enacted so that the laws of the Union were faithfully executed in all states—including those in the south. Lincolns main priority at his inauguration was to reunited the country and avoid civil war. He attempted to ease the tension between the states by stating his knowledge and perception of the constitution and his place as president in upholding it. He assured the country that he had no intentions or authority to change the laws which each state currently had in place. He continues on to insure the public that the United States Postal Service would continue to serve all states in the Country as long as those states allowed it. Lincoln finishes his speech we a plea and warning stating "We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection." Lincoln’s policies and promises would eventually see the United States through the Civil War were to this day he is still known as one of the greatest presidents of all

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