Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address: Who Was He Speaking To?

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, a speech that only lasted less than three minutes, became one of the most famous speeches in American history. But who was he really speaking to during this momentous event?

Introduction

Lincoln gave his address on November 19, 1863, during the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The backdrop was the aftermath of the bloody Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War.

Lincoln’s Audience

Lincoln was not the main speaker at the event. Edward Everett, a renowned orator, gave a two-hour speech on the history and significance of the Battle of Gettysburg. Lincoln was invited to speak briefly in order to accept the dedication of the cemetery on behalf of the federal government.

Contrary to popular belief, Lincoln did not stand alone. He was addressing a crowd of several thousand people gathered for the occasion. However, his speech went beyond just the attendees. He was making a broader appeal to the American public, particularly those who were weary of the ongoing conflict.

Purpose of the Address

The main purpose of Lincoln’s speech was to emphasize the value and significance of the Union. In his address, he reminded the nation that the battle was fought to preserve the United States, no matter the cost. This message was aimed at both the survivors and the broader American public.

The "We" in the Address

Lincoln used the term "we" to represent everyone in the United States who was either fighting for or supporting the Union cause. The speech was not just for the attendees but for all Americans who were navigating the challenges of the Civil War.

Reception and Impact

Lincoln’s speech was met with a ripple of applause when he concluded. However, he was disappointed that the crowd did not seem to appreciate his remarks. This reflects the complex emotions and reactions of the time.

Interestingly, Edward Everett, who had given the longer speech earlier in the ceremony, praised Lincoln’s remarks the following day. Everett wrote that Lincoln’s two or three minutes were closer to the heart of the matter than his two-hour speech.

Despite the immediate reaction, Lincoln’s speech quickly gained recognition. It was printed in newspapers across the North and widely circulated. Over time, it came to be seen as the definitive statement on the rebirth of the nation through the trials of the Civil War.

While Edward Everett's speech is largely forgotten, it stands as a reminder of the historical context and the significance of Lincoln's words. Everett’s oratory skills were impressive, but it was Lincoln's concise yet powerful message that resonated with the public and the nation.

In conclusion, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address was a message to the nation, both those present and those who were not. It emphasized the noble cause of the Union and the sacrifices made to preserve it. This speech, with its timeless message, has remained an iconic part of American history.