Civil War Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

Civil war quotes refer to a collection of quotes that pertain to the subject of civil wars. These quotes often encapsulate the various perspectives, emotions, and experiences surrounding civil conflicts and their consequences. They may reflect the sentiments of historical figures, soldiers, civilians, or observers who have witnessed or been affected by such wars.

Civil war quotes can offer insight into the motivations, struggles, and consequences of these turbulent periods in history, shedding light on the human experiences and complexities that arise during times of internal conflict.

Below are various civil war quotes with their meanings/explanations;

“We are not fighting for slavery. We are fighting for Independence, and that, or extermination, we will have.” - Jefferson Davis

America was founded on the principle of freedom, and the fight for independence is the fight for that freedom. In order to keep that freedom, we must never forget our past and what it took to gain it. We must also remember that we are not fighting for slavery; we are fighting for Independence. We will have this freedom if we work together and never forget what we are fighting for.

“The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.” - Abraham Lincoln

The Gettysburg Address is one of the most well-known speeches in American history. The speech was given on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. In just under three minutes, Lincoln eloquently recounted the sacrifices made by soldiers during the American Civil War and urged Americans to remember them. The speech has been read and re-read throughout the years, and has inspired people in different ways.

“A Union that can only be maintained by swords and bayonets, and in which strife and civil war are to take the place of brotherly love and kindness, has no charm for me.” - Robert E. Lee

 This is a speech in which he argued that the Union should be preserved by force of arms. He believed that if the Union were to break up, it would lead to civil war and strife. This would be opposed to the type of society he wanted, which was one in which brotherly love and kindness prevailed.

“In every battle there comes a time when both sides consider themselves beaten, then he who continues the attack wins.” - Ulysses S. Grant

 This is often the decisive moment in a conflict, and it's something that commanders on both sides must always remember. The ability to push through when things seem hopeless is what allows fighters to win battles.

“Boys, do you hear that musketry and that artillery? It means that our friends are falling by the hundreds at the hands of the enemy, and here we are… Let’s go and help them. What do you say?” - Nathan Bedford Forrest, 1862, address to his men at Shiloh

As the battle raged on, the sound of musketry and artillery could be heard in the distance. It meant that our friends were falling by the hundreds at the hands of the enemy, and here we were sitting idly by. Surely there was nothing stopping us from going and helping them. After all, what was one life compared to so many? So, with a sense of duty burning in our hearts, we rose to our feet and began marching towards the battlefield.

“We, on our side, are praying to Him to give us victory, because we believe we are right; but those on the other side pray to Him, look for victory, believing they are right. What must He think of us?” - Abraham Lincoln

In the United States, one of the most widely practiced religions is Christianity. The Christian god is often thought of as being on the side of good, and is often prayed to for help in times of need. However, there is a rival religion practiced in many other countries which holds that the gods are on the side of evil, and that they must be appeased with sacrifices in order to ensure victory in battles.

“Whenever Lee made a decision regarding enslaved people he chose profit over human decency.” - Ty Seidule, Robert E. Lee and Me: A Southerner’s Reckoning with the Myth of the Lost Cause

When it came to slavery, Lee made decisions that prioritized profit over decency. He repeatedly ignored pleas from his advisors to end the practice, and he refused to emancipate any slaves even when they were offered freedom for service in the Confederate army. In fact, Lee's policies amounted to legalized slavery, and ultimately contributed to the Confederacy's defeat.

“It is painful enough to discover with what unconcern they speak of war and threaten it. They do not know its horrors. I have seen enough of it to make me look upon it as the sum of all evils.” - Stonewall Jackson

It is difficult to find anyone who does not seem to be anxious about the possibility of war. However, it is also important to remember that most people do not know what war is really like. I have seen too much of it to not believe that it is the single greatest evil in the world. War destroys everything it touches, and there is never a winner.

“Government, too, played an important role. It helped eradicate slavery and other forms of discrimination. It opened up the frontier through actions like the Homestead Act and rural electrification.” - Ronald Reagan, October 15, 1981

The government played an important role in the abolishment of slavery and other forms of discrimination. For example, the government helped open up the frontier through actions like the Homestead Act and rural electrification. These actions helped to improve the quality of life for many Americans. The government also played a role in fighting discrimination against people based on race or sex.

“We have but one flag, one country; let us stand together. We may differ in color, but not in sentiment.” - Nathan Bedford Forrest

As Americans, we are proud of our flag and our country. We have but one flag, one country, and we should stand together in support of one another. We may differ in color, but not in sentiment. We should unite to fight for what is right, and to maintain our freedoms.

“War is cruelty. There is no use trying to reform it. The crueler it is, the sooner it will be over.” - William Tecumseh Sherman

The horrors of war are well documented. Wars are fought over resources, land, and power. They result in the deaths of millions of people, and leave behind devastation and poverty. War is cruelty, and there is no use in trying to reform it. The crueler it is, the sooner it will be over.

“I have never advocated war except as a means of peace, so seek peace, but prepare for war. Because war… War never changes. War is like winter and winter is coming.” - Ulysses S. Grant

Many people believed that war would change everything. They were wrong. War never changes. It is like winter and winter is coming. The people who advocate for war don't understand this. They are like the animals in the forest who believe that by sacrificing one animal, they will be able to drive away the animal that killed their kin. This is foolishness.

“If you surrender you shall be treated as prisoners of war, but if you have to storm your works you may expect no quarter.” - Nathan Bedford Forrest

 It is a warning to soldiers about the consequences of capitulation, or surrendering under non-permissive conditions. If an enemy army surrenders, they are considered prisoners of war.

“Don’t bring up your sons to detest the United States… Recollect that we form one country now. Abandon all these local animosities, and make your sons Americans.” - Robert E. Lee

If you want your sons to love the United States, start by not teaching them to detest it. This is not a difficult task, given that we now form one country. Abandon all these local animosities and make them proud Americans. Believe it or not, there is much to love about our nation and its people. If you can instill these values in your son, they'll be better equipped to appreciate all that America has to offer.

“Wars produce many stories of fiction, some of which are told until they are believed to be true.” - Ulysses S. Grant

Wars produce many stories of fiction, some of which are told until they are believed to be true. Some of these stories, like the Battle of Gettysburg, have been passed down from generation to generation and continue to be retold today. Other wars produce less well-known stories, like the Battle of The Bulge, which took place near the end of World War II. These lesser-known stories are often more interesting and provide a more complete look at the conflict.

“That we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain.” - Abraham Lincoln

In 1865, Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. The speech is regarded as one of the greatest in American history and is often quoted. Lincoln's purpose for giving the speech was to encourage Americans to continue fighting in the Civil War. He said: "that these dead shall not have died in vain." This resolve has helped to sustain Americans through difficult times and has made them better people.

“Now, let me start with a story, a bit of history-1862, the middle of the Civil War. And on May 20th of that year, Abraham Lincoln sat down with pen in hand and signed into law the Homestead Act of 1862.” - George H.W. Bush, November 28, 1990

The Homestead Act of 1862 was a US law that offered free land to any American who could prove they had owned or rented land in the United States for at least six months. The act was passed during the middle of the Civil War, and it was meant to help soldiers and farmers get started in their new homes after the war. The law was signed by Abraham Lincoln, and it helped many people get their feet on the ground after the war.

“In the present Civil War-it is quite possible that God’s purpose is something different from the purpose of either party-and yet the human instrumentalities, working just as they do, are of the best adaptation to effect his purpose.” - Abraham Lincoln

In the present Civil War-it is quite possible that God's purpose is something different from the purpose of either party-and yet the human instrumentalities, working just as they do, are of the best. It may be that God has a different plan for this particular time and place than either side realizes. The bloodshed, destruction, and heartache are a sad testament to that.

“If it is necessary that slavery should fall that the Republic may continue its existence, let slavery go.” - Ulysses S. Grant

 This is not something that can be done overnight, but it is something that must be done if the United States is to have a future. Slavery has been a part of American history for too long and it needs to end. It is time for the nation to move forward and be better than its past.

“The past is dead; let it bury its dead, its hopes and its aspirations; before you lies the future – a future full of golden promise.” - Jefferson Davis

The future belongs to those who believe in it- those who are willing to work for it and make it a reality. What lies ahead is an era of opportunity, of progress, and of growth. Let us seize this moment and make the most of it.

“So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I rejoice that slavery is abolished.” - Robert E. Lee

Abolition of slavery was certainly a step in the right direction, and represented progress for society as a whole. However, there are still people who support slavery, and quote Abraham Lincoln to justify their position. Lincoln said, "So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I rejoice that slavery is abolished." This statement shows that Lincoln was not pro-slavery, and supported abolition because he believed it was the right thing to do.

“The hen is the wisest of all the animal creation, because she never cackles until the egg is laid.” - Abraham Lincoln

The hen is the wisest of all the animal creation, because she never cackles until the egg is laid. She knows when it is time to lay her next egg, and she will not do so until she is sure that the egg will be able to withstand the cold environment.

“I consider the central idea pervading this struggle is the necessity that is upon us, of proving that popular government is not an absurdity. We must settle this question now, whether in a free government the minority have the right to break up the government whenever they choose. If we fail it will go far to prove the incapability of the people to govern themselves.” - Abraham Lincoln

The idea of popular government is one that has been debated and discussed for centuries. There are many people who believe that it is an absurdity, and there are others who believe that it is the best form of government. The question that we must now answer is whether popular government is possible in today's world.

“Racial hatred in America still exists but never was it anything like the time immediately after the Civil War. The western history of our nation would not be complete without the story of former slaves that helped develop the unique character of the West.” - William Silverman

The Civil War was over, but the wounds it inflicted on the nation were still raw. The south had seceded, breaking the nation in two. The northern population was furious and determined to put the south back in its place. Racism was rampant, with many northerners believing that blacks were inferior to whites. Fortunately, things began to change after the Civil War. The north started to learn about and appreciate all of the different cultures that made up America.

“In the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln signed into law two visionary programs that helped our people come together again and build America up. The Morrill Act helped States create new land grant colleges.” - Bill Clinton, March 1, 1993

In 1862, America was in the midst of the Civil War. President Lincoln had to deal with many problems, such as the war and the economy. One problem that he was able to solve was the creation of new land. On July 16th, 1862, Lincoln signed into law the Morrill Act. This act helped States create new land for farming purposes. This allowed people to come together and rebuild America.

“From these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.” - Abraham Lincoln

The fallen are honored with parades and ceremonies, but one group of people takes a special interest in these fallen soldiers and their sacrifices - those who survived. They owe their continued survival to those who have passed away. These survivors take increased devotion to the cause for which their predecessors gave the last full measure of devotion.

“The interests of the white and of the colored people both and equally and to put forth my best efforts in behalf of a civil policy which will forever wipe out in our political affairs the color line and the distinction between North and South, to the end that we may have not merely a united North or a united South, but a united country.” - Rutherford B. Hayes

Since the beginning of our nation, there has been a debate over what type of society the United States should be. Some people believe that the country should be based on white supremacy while others believe that it should be based on equality. However, one common goal that both groups share is the desire to rid our political landscape of the color line.

“We have, as all will agree, a free government, where every man has a right to be equal with every other man.” - Abraham Lincoln

The United States of America is one of the most influential countries in the world. It has played a large role in shaping international law and politics. The country was founded on the principle that all men are created equal. This principle is enshrined in the Constitution, which is the fundamental law of the land. The Constitution guarantees every American the right to be equal with every other American. This principle is at the heart of our democracy.

“I don’t think the people of the slave states will ever consider the subject of slavery in its true light till some other argument is resorted to other than moral persuasion.” - John H. Brown

The author goes on to explain that until the public can come to a consensus about what slavery should be called, it will be difficult to change their views on the issue. He argues that changing the name of the institution might be one way to start that process.

“Without slavery the rebellion could never have existed; without slavery, it could not continue.” - Abraham Lincoln

The United States would not be the country it is today without the institution of slavery. The rebellion that eventually split the colonies from Great Britain could not have happened without the unpaid labor of millions of slaves. Without slavery, the American Revolution could not have continued, and who knows where our nation would be today.

“Let me assure my countrymen of the Southern States that it is my earnest desire to regard and promote their truest interest.” - Rutherford B. Hayes

 This quote is an important reminder that all Americans should be concerned with the welfare of their fellow citizens in the Southern States, which were still emerging from under British control.

“War means fighting. The business of the soldier is to fight… To move swiftly, strike vigorously, and secure all the fruits of victory is the secret of successful war.” - Stonewall Jackson

Soldiers are constantly on the move, fighting in wars around the world. Their job is to move swiftly and strike vigorously, securing all the fruits of victory. Soldiers must be able to move quickly and strike hard, or they will not be successful in their mission. War is a business of fighting, and soldiers must be prepared for any situation that arises.

“He who does something at the head of one Regiment, will eclipse him who does nothing at the head of a hundred.” - Abraham Lincoln, 31 December 1861, letter to David Hunter

This quote sums up what many military officers and historians believe: that if a leader can get their unit to perform well at the front, they will be more successful than if they only do things at the back. This is especially true in times of war, when a regiment or unit can make or break the effort of an entire army.

“It is history that teaches us to hope.” - Robert E. Lee

Each time humanity has faced a new challenge, we have persevered and come through triumphantly. In the face of great adversity, we have shown ourselves to be resilient and resourceful. We know that if we work together, with perseverance and faith in our collective future, we can overcome any obstacle. We must remember that history is full of examples of people who have risen up against impossible odds and succeeded. We can do the same.

“At the time of the Civil War, there were six democracies on the face of the planet. Today, there’s 120 and they’ve been inspired by the American exceptionalism.” - Robert Kennedy, Jr.

The six democracies that existed at the time of the Civil War are now known as the " democracies of the world ." 120 of these nations have been inspired by the American exceptionalism and democratic principles that have been so evident in America throughout its history.

“The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving on.” - Ulysses S. Grant

 That may sound like a basic strategy, but it's the key to winning any battle. War is a continuous cycle of offense and defense, where each side tries to outmaneuver the other. In order to win, you need to know your opponent's weaknesses and take advantage of them.

“In July 1862, in the darkest days of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln signed two acts which were to help to mold the future of the Nation which he was then struggling to preserve.” - John F. Kennedy, November 12, 1961

On July 4, 1862, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed all slaves in the Confederacy. This act helped to shape the future of the Nation and preserve the Union. The Union was now divided into two separate nations: the North, which supported slavery, and the South, which did not. The war continued to rage on and Lincoln was constantly trying to find a way to end it.

“Talk, is a national institution, but it does not help the slave.” - John H. Brown

Talk, or the lack thereof, is often cited as a contributing factor to the enslavement of millions of people over the centuries. It's easy to see how this could be true. If you have nothing to say, someone else will have something to say for you. If you're not heard, it's easy to believe that your thoughts and experiences don't matter. Consequently, many slaves were kept in silence because they didn't think they had anything worth saying.

“I believe it to be the duty of everyone to unite in the restoration of the country and the reestablishment of peace and harmony.” - Robert E. Lee

 We must work together to rebuild our beloved nation. Let us all come together and work towards a better future for our children.

“America is a land of big dreamers and big hopes. It is this hope that has sustained us through revolution and civil war, depression, and world war, a struggle for civil and social rights, and the brink of a nuclear crisis.” - Barrack Obama

There is something about the American dream that has inspired people from all over the world to come and make their home here. This is a land of opportunity where anyone can achieve anything, as long as they work hard enough. This hope is what has driven us to fight for our rights, and it is what will continue to keep us moving forward.

“War means fighting, and fighting means killing.” - Nathan Bedford Forrest

War is an inevitable part of human existence. It is a necessary evil that allows for the growth of civilization and the expansion of Human Rights. However, it comes with a price. War means fighting, and fighting means killing. It is easy to forget that when we are embroiled in one. We must always remember that no matter how justified our actions may seem, there are people out there who will be killed or injured as a result.

“The cause of the great War of the Rebellion against the United States will have to be attributed to slavery.” - Ulysses S. Grant

This institution was a major factor in creating animosity and conflict between the states. The southern states believed that slavery was an important part of their culture and that it should not be abolished. The northern states, on the other hand, believed that slavery was wrong and that it should be abolished.

“This fight is against slavery; if we lose it, you will be made free.” - Nathan Bedford Forrest

If we lose this fight, millions of people will be made slaves. We need to stand up and fight for our freedom. We can't let them take it away from us.

“War at the best, is terrible, and this war of ours, in its magnitude and in its duration, is one of the most terrible.” - Abraham Lincoln, 16 June 1864, speech at Philadelphia

The United States has been at war for over a year now. The war in Afghanistan is the longest in American history. It has taken a tremendous toll on both military and civilian personnel, as well as the nation's infrastructure. The causes of the war are complex and debatable, but one thing is certain: War is never good, no matter which side you're on. This conflict is particularly terrible because it has lasted so long, killed so many people, and caused so much destruction.

“There is no need for bloodshed and war. There is no necessity for it.” - Abraham Lincoln

The notion of war and bloodshed has been ingrained in the human psyche for centuries. It is a part of the human condition that not many people are able to shake off. However, there is no need for bloodshed and war. This is because war and bloodshed do not solve any problems. In fact, it creates many more problems than it solves. War and bloodshed are destructive forces that can cause immense damage to society, the economy, and the environment.

“You cannot be President of the United States if you don’t have faith. Remember Lincoln, going to his knees in times of trial in the Civil War and all that stuff.” - George H.W. Bush

Faith has always been an important part of American history. Not only did our Founding Fathers have faith in the principles of democracy and liberty, but many great Americans have had faith in helping others. For example, Abraham Lincoln was a strong believer in the power of faith. During the Civil War, when things were very difficult for him and the Union Army, he went to prayer meetings and knelt in times of trial. This showed his confidence in God's support and helped him to persevere.

“Now we are engaged in a great Civil War, testing whether that nation or any nation so conceived and so dedicated can long endure.” - Abraham Lincoln

America was a young nation dedicated to manifesting the principles of democracy. Less than 150 years later, America is engaged in a great Civil War testing whether that nation or any nation so conceived and so dedicated can long endure. The causes of the Civil War are complex, but one common denominator is slavery. The Confederacy sought to preserve what they considered an institution that was essential to their culture and economy.

“My policy is to trust peace and to put aside the bayonet.” - Rutherford B. Hayes

The quote is a reminder that sometimes the most effective way to achieve peace is through diplomacy.

“The war is over-the rebels are our countrymen again.” - Ulysses S. Grant

In the darkness of night, after months of fighting, the rebel forces managed to take control of the city. The civilians were able to flee and live safely in another part of the country. The military was left behind, scattered, and defeated. Now, the rebels must try to rebuild their country and make it a place where everyone can be safe.

“It is easy to see that, under the sharp discipline of Civil War, the nation is beginning a new life.” - Abraham Lincoln, 8 December 1863, message to Congress

The Confederacy has been defeated and the Union has emerged as a powerful force in world affairs. The people of the United States are united in their determination to move forward and rebuild their country.

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