02193cam a22003013u 4500 9 UtSlPG 20260610133026.0 m cr n 260607r1979||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 E456 Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865 Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 1979 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 1979-12-01 "Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address" by Abraham Lincoln is a historical document delivered as a speech on March 4, 1861. This address takes place during a tumultuous period in American history, specifically the lead-up to the Civil War. In this speech, Lincoln aims to reassure a divided nation, emphasizing the importance of the Union and the continuity of the Constitution while addressing the contentious issues surrounding slavery. In his address, Lincoln acknowledges the fears of Southern states regarding the protection of their rights and property, particularly concerning slavery. He firmly asserts that he has no intention to interfere with the institution of slavery where it already exists and advocates for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Lincoln discusses the nature of the Union, arguing that it is perpetual and cannot be dissolved by individual states. By appealing to unity, he calls for patience and a commitment to dialogue while reminding listeners that civil war would only arise from aggression. The address ends on a hopeful note, urging Americans to recognize their shared bonds and to seek reconciliation rather than division, famously invoking "the better angels of our nature." (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified United States -- Politics and government -- 1861-1865 Presidents -- United States -- Inaugural addresses https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/9 42164 42164