Four Score And Seven Years Ago Quote
Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is one of the most famous speeches in American history. It opens with the phrase "Four score and seven years ago," which is often quoted and referenced in popular culture. But what does this phrase actually mean, and why is it so significant? In this article, we will explore the origins and significance of the Four Score and Seven Years Ago quote.
What Does "Four Score And Seven Years Ago" Mean?
The phrase "Four score and seven years ago" is a way of saying "87 years ago." In Lincoln's time, a "score" referred to 20 years, so four score was equal to 80 years. Adding seven to that brings us to a total of 87 years. Lincoln used this phrase to refer to the founding of the United States, which took place 87 years before the Gettysburg Address was delivered.
The Gettysburg Address
The Gettysburg Address was delivered by Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The speech was given in the midst of the Civil War, and its purpose was to honor the soldiers who had died in battle and to inspire those who were still fighting. The speech was only 272 words long, but it has become one of the most famous speeches in American history.
The Significance of "Four Score And Seven Years Ago"
Lincoln used the phrase "Four score and seven years ago" to connect the present moment to the founding of the United States. He was reminding his audience that the country was founded on the principles of freedom and equality, and that those principles were worth fighting for. By using this phrase, Lincoln was emphasizing the continuity of American history and the importance of the Civil War in preserving the Union and upholding those principles.
Legacy of the Gettysburg Address
The Gettysburg Address has become a symbol of American democracy and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought to preserve it. The speech is often studied in schools and is quoted by politicians and activists. The phrase "Four score and seven years ago" has become a shorthand way of referring to the Gettysburg Address and the principles it represents.
In Conclusion
The Four Score and Seven Years Ago quote is a powerful reminder of the founding principles of the United States and the sacrifices made to preserve them. Abraham Lincoln used this phrase to connect the present moment to the past and to emphasize the importance of the Civil War in upholding those principles. The Gettysburg Address has become a symbol of American democracy and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought to preserve it.