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who said of the people by the people ?

### The Origins and Influential Legacy of “Of The People, By The People, For The People”

In 1863, in the midst of the tumultuous American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln delivered what is now one of the most recognizable and enduring expressions of democratic governance: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people”. These inspiring words rang out at Gettysburg, during one of the most poignant and reflective moments that the nation ever faced. But did Lincoln originate the phrase, or was he just paraphrasing a deeper well of history and thought?

The notion encapsulated in these words, that a government should represent and serve its populace, has deep roots in Western political theory. However, attributing the specific phrasing to a single source is more complex. It is indeed Lincoln who delivered these words in his 1863 Gettysburg Address, yet the ideological and literary roots of Lincoln’s proclamation stretch back through various forms and expressions.

Historians and scholars have uncovered a precedent for this concept, finding similar expressions used by figures like Daniel Webster, who in 1830 spoke in the Senate of a government “by the people, made for the people, and answerable to the people.” Similarly, John Adams in a letter wrote, “And a Constitution, also, may be defined, a government of laws, and not of men. A Constitution of Government, implies also a peculiar responsibility to the people, and to the whole world.” These early examples show a recurring theme of democratic governance but do not mirror the exact sequence as coined by Lincoln.

It is interesting to note the evolution of the idea over time. Lincoln picked up threads from the political rhetoric of his predecessors and wove them into the eloquent fabric of his Gettysburg Address. His use of these specific words, however, was distinctly his own and has had an enduring impact on the discourse around democracy and governance. Lincoln’s eloquence crystallized a vision of a government’s higher purpose and resonated with the nation, affirming a democratic ethos at a crucial point in its history.

The phrase’s significance is not limited to the historical context of the United States. It has become a powerful slogan used to promote the principles of democratic governance worldwide. The words have been employed in various forms of political discourse, from political speeches to educational materials, serving as a rallying call for political enlightenment and participation. Yet, the assertion of these principles means little without the practical implementation and vigilance needed to uphold democratic values.

Lincoln’s famous quote encapsulates an aspirational ideal, one that challenges all who engage with government. It demands action: a government must not only represent the populace but also actively ensure that it governs in response to the people’s needs, desires, and rights. This is a principle that applies to modern democracies as much today as it did in the 19th century.

However, critically analyzing Lincoln’s assertion necessitates considering its practicality and the real-world challenges in achieving a government “of the people, by the people, for the people.” It requires ongoing vigilance and action from citizens to maintain and ensure that their government truly functions on these democratic principles — which is not only a collective responsibility but also a profound civic duty.

In conclusion, while Abraham Lincoln undoubtedly popularized the phrase during his time of moral and national crisis, the ideals it encapsulates have a rich history and continue to serve as a defining tenet of democratic governance. These words remain a testament to the spirit of democracy, one that continues to resonate and inspire, inviting us to reflect on the essence of an ideal government. Whether borrowed or original, Lincoln’s expression remains one of the most potent and compelling expressions of democratic aspiration.