If nominated, I will not run; if elected, I will not serve. - On the request that he accept the Republican presidential nomination.

Up men to your posts! Don't forget today that you are from old Virginia. - Gettysburg, July 3, 1863.

Necessity is the plea of every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants; it is the creed of slaves.

Make men wise, and by that very operation you make them free. Civil liberty follows as a consequence of this; no usurped power can stand against the artillery of opinion.

God himself has no right to be a tyrant.

Justice delayed is justice denied.