The American Civil War (1861-1865) is one of the most significant events in United States history. It pitted brother against brother and neighbor against neighbor, and it tested the limits of the nation. Many people during this time were moved to express their feelings about the war, resulting in a variety of quotes that have become an integral part of the Civil War narrative. These quotes range from powerful statements about freedom and slavery to poignant reflections on courage and compassion. They capture the gravity of this tumultuous time in U.S. history and provide insight into how Americans were feeling during these difficult times.”A house divided against itself cannot stand.” – Abraham Lincoln, 1858
“Truth is generally the best vindication against slander.” – Abraham Lincoln, 1856
“I am content to die in the defense of my country.” – Stonewall Jackson, 1863
“The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.” – Abraham Lincoln, 1863
“It is well that war is so terrible – we should grow too fond of it.” – Robert E. Lee, 1863
“Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.” – Abraham Lincoln, 1863
“Duty is the most sublime word in our language. Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more. You should never wish to do less.” – Robert E. Lee, 1862
Abraham Lincoln’s Quotes on the Civil War
Abraham Lincoln was a great American President who had many wise words to share about the Civil War. He believed that the war was necessary in order to preserve the Union, and that it would be fought for a just cause. Here are some of his most famous quotes on the Civil War:
“We can not have free government without elections; and if the rebellion could force us to forego, or postpone a national election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined us.”
“The struggle of today, is not altogether for today — it is for a vast future also.”
“Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves; and, under a just God, can not long retain it.”
“With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan —to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves, and with all nations.”
Lincoln was also known for having great faith during this difficult time. He urged everyone to look towards God for strength during this tumultuous period of history. He said “The will of God prevails. In great contests each party claims to act in accordance with the will of God. Both may be, and one must be wrong. God cannot be for and against the same thing at the same time.” Lincoln knew that when faced with adversity one must remember that God is always present even in times of darkness.
Overall Abraham Lincoln’s words were a source of courage during one of America’s most trying times. His words still offer inspiration today as we continue our journey towards equality and justice in our society.
Ulysses S. Grant’s Quotes on the Civil War
Ulysses S. Grant was a Union Army general and the 18th President of the United States. He had a major role in leading the Union to victory in the American Civil War, and he has many memorable quotes about the conflict. Here are some of Ulysses S. Grant’s most famous quotes on the Civil War:
“The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving.”
“I propose to move immediately upon your works.”
“The war will soon be over, but let us hope it will not be forgotten.”
“Let us have peace.”
“In every battle there comes a time when both sides consider themselves beaten, then he who continues the attack wins.”
“It is not always necessary to fight; sometimes victory can be achieved by other means than conflict.”
“War is hell.”
Robert E. Lee’s Quotes on the Civil War
Robert E. Lee is known for being one of the most influential figures of the Civil War. He was a Confederate General who fought against the Union forces during the conflict, and his quotes on the Civil War offer insight into his thoughts and feelings on the matter. Here are some of Robert E. Lee’s quotes on the Civil War:
“It is well that war is so terrible, otherwise we should grow too fond of it.”
This quote emphasizes the horrors of war and serves as a reminder that war should never be glorified or taken lightly. It is a warning to those who may think about entering into armed conflict without understanding its implications or consequences.
“The war was an unnecessary condition of affairs, and might have been avoided if forebearance and wisdom had been practiced on both sides.”
In this quote, Lee expresses his opinion that both sides could have come to a peaceful resolution if they had chosen to use diplomacy instead of resorting to violence. He believed that war should always be a last resort rather than a first option, and this sentiment was shared by many at the time.
“The truth is this: The march of Providence is so slow and our desires so impatient; the work of progress is so immense and our means of aiding it so feeble; the life of humanity is so long, that of individuals so brief, that we often see only the ebb of the advancing wave and are thus discouraged.”
This quote speaks to how progress can be slow and difficult to achieve at times, but it also implies that with enough dedication and effort, we can eventually make progress if we remain patient and determined. This is an inspiring quote which offers hope in times when progress seems impossible.
Confederate Quotes from the Civil War
The American Civil War was a conflict between the United States of America and the Confederate States of America. During this period, many famous quotes were made by Confederate figures. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from Confederate leaders during the Civil War:
“A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.” – Dwight D Eisenhower
“It is well that war is so terrible, otherwise we would grow too fond of it.” – Robert E. Lee
“The truth is this: The march of Providence is so slow and our desires so impatient; the work of progress is so immense and our means of aiding it so feeble; the life of humanity is so long, that of the individual so brief, that we often see only the ebb of the advancing wave and are thus discouraged. It is history that teaches us to hope.” – Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson
“The education of a man is never completed until he dies.” – Robert E. Lee
“Our cause being just and holy, let us humbly commit our righteous cause to the God of battles.” – Jefferson Davis
“It becomes us in humility to make our devout acknowledgments to Almighty God for His goodness and mercy.” – PGT Beauregard
“You may be whatever you resolve to be.” – Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson
These quotes serve as a reminder that war should not be taken lightly, even in times when it seems necessary. They also demonstrate how powerful words can be when used to express strong convictions or beliefs. Whether you agree with these quotes or not, they are an important part of history that should not be forgotten. The courage displayed by these Confederate leaders during such a tumultuous time serves as an inspiration for future generations.
Union Quotes from the Civil War
Quotes from the Civil War are a powerful reminder of the courage, determination, and sacrifice of Union forces during this historic conflict. Abraham Lincoln’s “The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here,” is perhaps one of the most famous quotes from the Civil War. This immortal line was spoken by Lincoln at the dedication of the Gettysburg National Cemetery in 1863. Another famous quote is “My dream is of a place and a time where America will once again be seen as the last best hope of earth.” This quote was spoken by Lincoln during his second inaugural address in 1865.
Other inspiring Union quotes come from General Ulysses S. Grant. In a letter to his wife in 1862 he wrote, “Let us have faith that right makes might and in that faith let us to the end dare to do our duty as we understand it.” General William Tecumseh Sherman also had some powerful words for his troops before their march to Atlanta in 1864: “Remember men, you are from Ohio! You are expected to do your full duty today.”
The words of Union officers and soldiers alike remind us of the courage and bravery that were so essential during this trying period in American history. The legacy these brave individuals left behind serves as an inspiration for future generations. Whether it was Grant’s call to duty or Lincoln’s dream for America’s future, these quotes stand as enduring reminders of what can be accomplished when people unite around a common cause.
Women Quotes from the Civil War
The American Civil War was a defining moment in the history of the United States. Women played an important role in this period, speaking out and offering their perspectives on the conflict. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from women who lived through the Civil War:
“We are not here to play, to dream, to drift; We have hard work to do and loads to lift; Shun not the struggle—face it; ’tis God’s gift.” – Ann S. Stephens
“I may be compelled to face danger, but never fear it, and while our soldiers can stand and fight, I can stand and feed them.” – Clara Barton
“A woman’s heart must be of such a size and no larger, else it must be pressed small, like Chinese feet; her happiness is to be made as cakes are, by a fixed recipe.” – Louisa May Alcott
“Let us never forget that women have ever been warriors for freedom.” – Lydia Maria Child
“We are all one people. We share one country. We share one destiny.” – Mary Elizabeth Lease
“The best protection any woman can have…is courage.” – Elizabeth Cady Stanton
These quotes from women of the Civil War era remind us of their courage and dedication in the face of adversity. Their words still inspire today as we remember their invaluable contributions in shaping our history.
African-American Quotes from the Civil War
The Civil War was a tumultuous and difficult time in American history. African Americans had an especially powerful and unique experience of the period, as they were often caught in the middle of a conflict that pitted their loyalties between their country and their former masters. As such, African Americans often had inspiring words to share about the Civil War, offering powerful perspectives on courage, faith, and freedom. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from African Americans during this time:
“The cause for which I am contending is as sacred as any cause can be… It is the cause of human nature itself.” – Harriet Tubman
“We will be free! We will be free! The Lord has spoken it; and we believe it.” – Sojourner Truth
“I don’t like war no better than you do… but I’m going to fight till I die or till victory is won.” – Unknown Black Soldier
“We shall either bring them freedom or die in the attempt.” – Frederick Douglass
“If there is no struggle, there is no progress. Those who profess to favor freedom, yet depreciate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground.” – Frederick Douglass
Conclusion
The civil war quotes highlighted in this article show us how the mentality of the people changed during and after the war. We can see that people experienced a shift in their beliefs, values, and goals as a result of this conflict. People went from believing in the Union to believing in themselves, and from seeing death as tragedy to seeing it as a sacrifice for something greater. It is clear that this war had a profound effect on American culture and society, one which still affects us today.
The quotes we have seen demonstrate how people were able to find strength in the midst of an incredibly difficult situation and how they were able to persevere despite all odds. They remind us of our capacity for resilience and our ability to come together during times of crisis. The civil war was an incredibly traumatic experience for Americans, but ultimately it resulted in a more unified nation.
We can draw many lessons from these quotes about the power of perseverance, unity, and courage during difficult times. They are still relevant today as we face new challenges that may seem insurmountable. With each quote reminding us of what we are capable of achieving when we work together, let us remember that no matter how hard life may be at times, with courage and determination anything is possible.