In giving freedom to the slave, we assure freedom to the free - honorable alike in that we give and what we preserve. We shall nobly save, or meanly lose, the last best hope of earth.

In this quote, Abraham Lincoln emphasizes the interconnectedness of freedom for all people, stating that by granting freedom to the slave, society ensures its own freedom as well. Lincoln suggests that freedom is not a zero-sum game, where one person’s gain leads to another's loss. Instead, by extending freedom to those who are oppressed, society as a whole maintains its moral integrity and ensures the preservation of the values that define it. This idea reflects his belief in the universal nature of freedom, where justice for one group strengthens the nation as a whole.

The origin of this quote comes from Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, who is best known for his leadership during the Civil War and his role in the abolition of slavery. Lincoln’s vision for a united country hinged on the principle of equality and liberty for all, and this quote reflects his deep commitment to those ideals. It was spoken in the context of his efforts to end slavery and preserve the Union.

Lincoln also argues that this action to grant freedom to the enslaved is a matter of national honor—what is given and what is preserved is noble. He presents the struggle for freedom as not only a moral necessity but as the last best hope of earth, a phrase reflecting his belief in the United States as a beacon of freedom and democracy for the world. The decision to abolish slavery is framed as a critical moment in history, one that would either lead to a just and honorable outcome or mark the nation’s moral failure.

Ultimately, this quote serves as a call to action to uphold the ideals of freedom and equality, not just for enslaved individuals but for the future of the nation. Lincoln stresses the importance of this moral and political struggle, urging the country to nobly save the cause of freedom, as it is tied to the very soul of the nation.