Quincy Reporter

On November 19, 1863, a dedication ceremony took place at the Gettysburg Soldiers' National Cemetery. The event was attended by many individuals, including the renowned orator Edward Everett, who delivered a lengthy speech prior to the main address. However, it was President Abraham Lincoln's brief and powerful speech that would go down in history as one of the most impactful moments in American history.

Edward Everett, a prominent figure at the time, delivered a two-hour, 13,000-word monologue during the ceremony. Despite his impressive oratory skills and extensive political background, Everett's speech was ultimately overshadowed by Lincoln's words. President Lincoln, who had been invited almost as an afterthought, took the stage and delivered a two-minute speech that would resonate throughout the ages.

In just 271 words and ten sentences, Lincoln masterfully recounted the founding of the nation and acknowledged the immense challenge it currently faced. He spoke of the significance of dedicating the cemetery and the futility of attempting to further consecrate the ground that had already been sanctified by those who had made the ultimate sacrifice. Lincoln expressed his unwavering determination to continue the work for which the fallen soldiers had given their lives, with the hope of creating a stronger nation and preserving our unique system of self-government.

"The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here," Lincoln humbly declared. "But it can never forget what they did here."

The reaction to Lincoln's speech was initially subdued, with silence filling the air before scattered applause broke out. Accounts differ as to why this was the case. Some speculate that the audience was so moved by the profoundness of Lincoln's words that they were momentarily unable to react. Others suggest that they were taken aback by the brevity of the speech. There were even those who considered it a failure.

However, as time passed, the true impact of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address became clear. Today, 160 years later, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest Presidential speeches in American history. Its brevity and succinctness encapsulate the essence of Lincoln's leadership and his ability to convey profound ideas in a concise manner.

On this anniversary of the Gettysburg Address, we reflect on the enduring legacy of President Abraham Lincoln, Illinois' favorite son. His words continue to inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the Civil War. The Gettysburg Address stands as a testament to the power of concise and impactful communication, reminding us of the importance of unity and the pursuit of a better nation.

To learn more about the Gettysburg Address and its historical significance, visit the following link: [Gettysburg Address Exhibit](https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/visit/whats-inside/exhibits/online-exhibits/gettysburg-address-everett-copy/)

To learn more, click on this link: https://repfrese.com/2023/11/19/160-years-ago-today-in-gettysburg/