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Abraham Lincoln's famous "House Divided" speech...
Abraham Lincoln's famous "House Divided" speech...
Item # 701890
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June 24, 1858
NEW YORK DAILY TRIBUNE, June 24, 1858 Of all the notable speeches of the 19th century it would be difficult to think of one which is more desired by collectors than this one. And it is very elusive as well, as it was not commonly printed in period newspapers.
Page 3 has nearly two columns of text headed: "Republican Principles" and "Speech of Hon. Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois, at the Republican State Convention, June 16, 1858". This is the reporting of Abraham Lincoln accepting the Illinois state Republican party nomination to the Senate, and in his acceptance speech makes two of the more historic utterances in American history.
In addressing the hot slavery issue, Lincoln asserts: "A house divided against itself cannot stand" and "I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free...".
It is near the beginning of his speech that both statements are found. Speaking to the issue of slavery Lincoln says: "...We are now far into the fifth year since a policy was initiated, with the avowed object and confident promise of putting an end to Slavery agitation. Under the operation of that policy, that agitation has not only not ceased, but has constantly augmented. In my opinion, it will not cease until a crisis shall have been reached and passed. A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved--I don't expect the house to fall--but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other..." with much, much more.
The complete text of Lincoln's historic speech is reported in this newspaper, only portions of which are shown in the photos.
Of added significance is the editorial commentary found on page 4 and which takes one-third of a column. It begins: "We print elsewhere the compact and forcible speech of the Hon. Abraham Lincoln before the late Republican State Convention at Springfield, Ill, setting forth the distinctive position & views of the Republicans...as distinguished from those of Senator Douglas...Mr. Lincoln never fails to make a good speech..." with more.
An extremely historic document and one of the most desired newspaper reports on Abraham Lincoln we have the opportunity to offer.
Eight pages, archivally rejoined at the spine, older archival strengthening at the outer margins of pages 2, 4, 6 & 8 affecting mostly ads. There is nothing affecting the Lincoln content. Otherwise in nice condition.
Category: Pre-Civil War


















