nation
Abraham Lincoln
Today marks the 150th anniversary of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
Some may question why I, as a naturalised Brit with a South African upbringing, think I can comment on this iconic figure in US history.
However, Abraham Lincoln is so much more than an American president. His humble roots, his legendary oratory skill and most importantly his statesmanship are a lesson to us all. His contribution to the freedom of man is well documented, and he led the “winners” in a civil war that was both bloody and tragic.
It is his understanding and commitment to conciliation and rebuilding that, for me, stand out and put him “up there” as a true hero of mankind. How easy it would have been for him to work towards the complete destruction of his enemies in the South.
But even before the American Civil War was completely won, Lincoln is quoted as saying this to the South,
“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.”
A man with vision, a man who saw the need to rebuild the nation, bring together her people and move forward. One cannot help but draw a comparison with Nelson Mandela – a man who was above revenge and settling scores, putting his people and his nation before all else.
RIP Abraham Lincoln – statesman and national leader extraordinaire.
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