The Gettysburg Address: The Two-Minute Speech That Saved America

The Gettysburg Address, delivered by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, redefined the American Civil War as a global struggle for democracy. Despite initial mixed reactions, it inspired Union troops and shaped US foreign policy. Its ideals of liberty and equality continue to influence global pro-democracy movements. The speech is more widely recognized than the Declaration of Independence for articulating America's core values.

What was the primary message of the Gettysburg Address delivered by Abraham Lincoln?

• To criticize the opposing forces

• To announce a new government policy

• To emphasize the importance of liberty and equality

• To declare victory in the Civil War

Which revolutionary figure inspired the Gettysburg Address?

• Vladimir Lenin

• Simon Bolivar

• Napoleon Bonaparte

• Giuseppe Mazzini

How did the Gettysburg Address initially resonate with the audience at the ceremony?

• It was ignored by the press

• It was met with overwhelming applause

• It was immediately celebrated nationwide

• It fell flat with many attendees

What did Boston Senator Charles Sumner say about the Gettysburg Address?

• It was irrelevant to the Civil War

• It was a failure in terms of public speaking

• It was a monumental act for the Union cause

• It was less important than the Battle of Gettysburg

According to Secretary of State Dean Rusk, how is the Gettysburg Address perceived compared to the Declaration of Independence?

• Not related to the Declaration of Independence

• Equally known as the Declaration of Independence

• More known than the Declaration of Independence

• Less known than the Declaration of Independence