Gettysburg Address Analysis

On November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of a new soldiers' cemetery. In his brief but powerful speech, Lincoln emphasized the principles of liberty and equality, urging the nation to honor the fallen by continuing the fight for these ideals. He highlighted the moral stakes of the Civil War, asserting that the Union must prevail to ensure a new birth of freedom and the survival of a government by the people. The address, consisting of just 273 words, became one of the most iconic speeches in American history.

What was the primary purpose of President Lincoln's speech at Gettysburg?

• To declare victory in the Civil War

• To dedicate a cemetery and inspire the nation

• To announce his re-election campaign

• To propose a new constitution

What historical event does Lincoln reference with 'four score and seven years ago'?

• The drafting of the Constitution

• The start of the American Revolution

• The end of the Civil War

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

What key principle did Lincoln emphasize as being central to the nation's founding?

• Liberty and equality

• Military strength

• Religious freedom

• Economic prosperity

Why did Lincoln believe it was important to raise the moral stakes of the Civil War?

• To ensure the war's financial backing

• To prevent the war from losing public support

• To gain international support

• To justify the expansion of the military

What did Lincoln hope to achieve by honoring the dead at Gettysburg?

• To inspire increased devotion to the Union cause

• To end the war immediately

• To negotiate peace with the Confederacy

• To establish a new government

How many words are in the Gettysburg Address?

• 150

• 273

• 350

• 400

What lasting impact did Lincoln hope the Gettysburg Address would have on the nation?

• A shift towards a monarchy

• A new birth of freedom and enduring democracy

• A return to colonial rule

• A focus on economic growth