Lincoln's Best Known Speeches

Speeches are the hallmark of all politicians. Some are good, most are forgettable, many were not worth listening to in the first instance. Lincoln gave many memorable speeches, several of which have become recognized as classics. His Gettysburg Address is generally recognized as the best known speech in history, and the list of speeches which are reproduced on these pages, while my favorites, coincide closely with similar lists put together by well known historians. One, his Meditation on the Divine Will, was not even meant to be seen or heard by others, but its eloquence is such that it can not be ignored.

Lyceum Address, January 27, 1838

House Divided Speech, June 16, 1858

Cooper Union Speech, February 27, 1860

Farewell Address, February 11, 1861

Meditation on the Divine Will, September, 1862

Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863

Last Public Speech, April 11, 1865

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