Abe Lincoln kicks ass. Here is Abe’s written version of that short but powerful speech. The speech was not given shortly before or shortly after the Battle of Gettysburg. It was actually given at a ceremony for a new graveyard for the Union soldiers. Previous to Lincoln’s speech, the Oration was given by Edward Everett. It lasted over 2 hours and was well received. Lincoln’s speech lasted just over two minutes. Some scholars have said that Lincoln’s speech was inspired by Pericles funeral oration. To see a video history of the battle, click here.
