"With malice toward none, with charity for all... let us strive... to bind up the nation's wounds... to do all which may achieve a just and a lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations." -Abraham Lincoln, Second Inaugural Address. Based on this quote, which of the following was Lincoln's hope for the future of the United states?
Answer 1: That the reunited United States would take its place among world powers
Answer 2: That the south would be punished for causing the war and enslaving millions
Answer 3: That both sides would reconcile and freedom and equality would prevail
Answer 4: That the north would provide charity to replace all that lost was during the war
Answer 3: That both sides would reconcile and freedom and equality would prevail
Based on the quote from Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address, his hope for the future of the United States can be inferred. To determine the correct answer, let's analyze the quote and the options presented.
In the quote, Lincoln expresses a desire for unity, healing, and a just and lasting peace. He speaks of "malice toward none" and "charity for all," indicating a spirit of forgiveness and compassion. He mentions the need to "bind up the nation's wounds," which suggests a desire for reconciliation and healing after the Civil War.
Now, let's evaluate the options:
Answer 1: That the reunited United States would take its place among world powers - This option does not align with the quote. The quote focuses on internal matters of unity, reconciliation, and peace, rather than aspirations for international influence.
Answer 2: That the south would be punished for causing the war and enslaving millions - This option also does not align with the quote. Lincoln's words emphasize forgiveness and charity, indicating a desire to move forward rather than seeking revenge or punishment.
Answer 3: That both sides would reconcile and freedom and equality would prevail - This answer aligns closely with the quote. Lincoln's mention of "binding up the nation's wounds" and striving for peace suggests a hope for reconciliation between the North and the South. Additionally, the mention of "freedom and equality" in this option resonates with Lincoln's larger goals as seen in other speeches and writings.
Answer 4: That the north would provide charity to replace all that was lost during the war - This option does not capture the full essence of Lincoln's hope as expressed in the quote. While there is mention of "charity for all," it does not solely refer to the North providing assistance for the losses incurred during the war.
Based on these considerations, the correct answer is:
Answer 3: That both sides would reconcile and freedom and equality would prevail