what did Lincoln mean when he stated, "If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves."
I think he meant that when our government policies start doing more damage than all of America's enemies have done, we as a nation are allowing ourselves to be destroyed without speaking out, standing up, and fight for change in our country.
What do you mean "fight for change in our country?"
It seems that Lincoln may not have said that. But he said something similar. Your explanation is good.
http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/03/27/white_house_down_trailer_hey_roland_emmerich_stop_misquoting_abraham_lincoln.html
Abraham Lincoln's statement, "If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves," is a powerful warning about the potential downfall of a nation. To understand its meaning, let's break it down.
First, we need to consider the context in which Lincoln made this statement. He delivered these words in his annual message to Congress on December 1, 1862, during the American Civil War. At that time, the nation was deeply divided over issues like slavery, states' rights, and preservation of the Union.
By stating, "If we falter," Lincoln acknowledges that the responsibility for the nation's fate lies with the American people as a collective. He emphasizes that it is not external forces or enemies that will bring about the destruction of America's freedoms, but rather our own actions or inaction.
The phrase, "lose our freedoms," implies that the American people possess certain rights and liberties, which are the foundation of the nation. These freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, were enshrined in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Lincoln warns that if these fundamental freedoms are eroded or relinquished, it will be a result of our own collective failures.
The phrase, "it will be because we destroyed ourselves," indicates that the destruction of America's freedoms will be a self-inflicted wound. Lincoln suggests that it is not solely external threats that can jeopardize the nation's core values but internal divisions, complacency, or a failure to address pressing issues head-on. He is cautioning against allowing internal conflicts or destructive policies to undermine the very essence of what makes America a free and united nation.
In summary, Lincoln's statement serves as a call to action, reminding Americans of their shared responsibility to preserve their freedoms and prevent self-destruction caused by neglect, division, or harmful policies. It underscores the importance of actively engaging in the democratic process, advocating for change, and safeguarding the principles upon which the nation was built.