November 19

Gettysburg Address — Lincoln's Finest Words

President Lincoln delivered a 272-word speech at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg, arguing that the sacrifices there must give birth to 'a new birth of freedom.' The main speaker, Edward Everett, spoke for two hours; Lincoln for two minutes.

The Gettysburg Address redefined the Civil War's purpose as the fulfillment of the Declaration of Independence's promise of equality and remains the most celebrated speech in American history.