ABRAHAM LINCOLN

Published on 23 Nov 2025

Abraham Lincoln was an American lawyer, politician, and statesman who served as the 16th president of the United States from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. Lincoln led the Union through the American Civil War to defend the nation as a constitutional union and succeeded in abolishing slavery, bolstering the federal government, and modernizing the U.S. economy.

Core Values

• Honesty: Lincoln was renowned for his honesty and integrity, earning him the nickname “Honest Abe.” He believed in transparency and truthfulness in all matters.

• Example: Raju Narayana Swamy was compelled to go on forced leave when he refused to work for hands in gloves with corrupt politicians

• Equality: He held a deep commitment to the principles of equality and the idea that all individuals, regardless of race or background, should have equal rights and opportunities.

• Justice: Lincoln believed in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice prevailed. He viewed justice as essential for maintaining a stable and just society.

• Example: Tukaram Mundh’s Walk with Commissioner program, where he used to resolve complaints of citizens every Sunday.

• Compassion: He demonstrated compassion and empathy, particularly during the Civil War, showing concern for the welfare of soldiers and citizens.

• Example: P Narahari has over 40 awards to his credit for making Indian infrastructure accessible to the disabled.

• Humility: Despite his high office, Lincoln remained humble and approachable, valuing the perspectives of others.

• Example: The approach of community-friendly policing by DC Rajappa in Karnataka.

• Determination: Lincoln displayed unwavering determination in his pursuit of preserving the Union during the Civil War and ending slavery.

• Example: Armstrong Pame built a 100 km road (People’s Road) that would link Manipur with Nagaland and Assam. He used social media to raise funds and was able to raise Rs. 40 lakh. The people of Tousem call him “Miracle Man.”

• Forgiveness: He emphasized the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness after the Civil War, advocating for healing and unity.

Quotes

•  “Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.”

• “Whatever you are, be a good one.”

• “Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?”

• “My Best Friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read.”

• “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side, for God is always right.”

• “I’m a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn’t have the heart to let him down.”

• “When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.”

• “Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves”

Abraham Lincoln’s values continue to inspire leaders and citizens alike as enduring principles for ethical governance and societal progress.

Tags:
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

Keywords:
ABRAHAM LINCOLN honesty justice equality humility Compassion Determination MORAL THINKERS PHILOSOPHERS Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be Whatever you are be a good one Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends My Best Friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side for God is always right I’m a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn’t have the heart to let him down When I do good I feel good. When I do bad I feel bad. That’s my religion Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 4

Topics:
Philosophical Thinkers