President Abraham Lincoln's short address at the Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, battlefield is one of the most eloquent political speeches in American history. Its inspiring message remains as meaningful today as when first delivered at the dedication of the Soldiers National Cemetery on November 19, 1863.
With the generous support of Mrs. Laura Bush, the White House is loaning this copy of the Gettysburg Address for a very limited public viewing.
In just a few words, Lincoln honored the Union soldiers who fought and died at Gettysburg and expressed the belief that their sacrifice was for a higher cause than preserving the country. It was a struggle to defend democracy, abolish slavery, and expand individual freedom. Lincoln not only sought to give meaning to the American Civil War, but to advocate a purpose for the nation.
Lincoln’s words have endured for all who embrace the promise "that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Download a printable version of the Gettysburg Address (.pdf)
First page of the Gettysburg Address
Second page of the Gettysburg Address
Third page of the Gettysburg Address
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