Reflections on Abraham Lincoln’s ‘Gettysburg Address’

Abraham Lincoln’s 'Gettysburg Address' is a celebrated speech that continues to captivate and inspire audiences well over a century and a half after it was delivered. Lincoln set out to unite the nation after the brutal Civil War, and while the speech is often heralded as one of the most eloquent and meaningful in American history, there are questions about its effectiveness. This article delves into the effectiveness of the address, its historical context, and why it remains a significant part of American history.

Lincoln's Goal and Context

Lincoln’s primary goal was to rally and unite the nation after the devastating Civil War. During this period, only white men were considered fully part of the nation, a fact starkly highlighted by the exclusion of other groups such as African Americans, women, and immigrants. Lincoln reminded his audience that the nation, if united, could remain a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

Notably, the speech wasn’t immediately well-received. Edward Everett, the primary speaker, had spoken for two hours, narrating the battle in detail. Lincoln’s task was to make "a few remarks" for the occasion, but he delivered a speech that has been immortalized in history rather than the more expected oration. The Gettysburg Address, a mere 271 words, was a significant departure from the expected format.

Mixed Reviews and Early Reception

There were mixed reviews in the press, and Lincoln himself felt disappointed by the response. However, over time, the speech has been recognized for its brevity and elegance. H.L. Mencken famously noted, "It is remembered and memorized." Edward Everett himself congratulated Lincoln for his concise expression of profound ideas, noting that Lincoln captured the essence of the battle in just two minutes, which Everett himself had failed to do in two hours.

Lincoln’s address was delivered in an atmosphere where a two-hour speech was considered customary. His speech was so brief that only one photograph was taken of him as he spoke. This simplicity and brevity initially led to confusion and criticism from the audience, who expected a more lengthy and elaborate speech to match the gravity of the occasion. Many thought that the brevity was out of character for the solemnity of the moment.

Perceived and Actual Effectiveness

Despite the initial critiques, the speech has endured as a pivotal moment in American history. Its impact can be seen in its lasting influence on American culture and politics. Interestingly, the effect on the audience was immediate and profound. Two teenage boys, moved by Lincoln's somber countenance and the weight of the grief he bore, were so inspired that they enlisted in the Union Army the very next day. This personal impact on the audience underscores the speech’s effectiveness.

Lincoln’s speech was a compressed version of an ancient Greek funeral oration, a form he had learned as a youth in the Springfield oratory society. The myth that Lincoln wrote the address on the train to Gettysburg is a popular misconception. The speech was crafted deliberately and painstakingly by Lincoln for the occasion. This fact underscores his dedication to the task and the speech’s importance.

Lincoln’s words, inscribed in his efforts to define the nation’s values and unity, have been fundamental in shaping American identity. The lasting legacy of the 'Gettysburg Address' lies in its ability to be remembered and referenced repeatedly, capturing the essence of the nation’s struggle and continued quest for unity.

In conclusion, while the 'Gettysburg Address' may not have met Lincoln’s initial hopes for immediate acclaim, its long-term impact on American history and collective conscience is undeniable. It stands as a testament to the power of concise and meaningful language in shaping the nation’s narrative.