Spirit of Leadership

THE SPIRIT OF LEADERSHIP

I have often inquired of myself what great principle or idea it was that kept this Confederacy [Union] so long together....It was that which gave promise that in due time the weight would be lifted from the shoulders of all men. This is a sentiment embodied in the Declaration of Independence.... I have said nothing but what I am willing to live by and, if it be the pleasure of Almighty God, die by. 9 Lincoln also helped to influence the nation to throw off the yoke of slavery. Just before Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation went into effect, he announced his pur pose and passion for his action in his annual message to Congress: The fiery trial through which we pass, will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest genera tion....We—even we here —hold the power, and bear the responsibility. In giving freedom to the slave , we assure freedom to the free —honorable alike in what we give, and what we preserve. We shall nobly save, or meanly lose, the last best hope of earth. Other means may succeed; this could not fail. The way is plain, peaceful, generous, just—a way which, if followed, the world will forever applaud, and God must forever bless. 10 Finally, Lincoln inspired people to bring an end to the war and to restore the unity of the country, even though his purpose did, indeed, eventually cost him his life. Fondly do we hope—fervently do we pray—that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away....

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