Which of the following best summarizes President Lincoln's meaning in this last sentence of his Gettysburg Address?

1. Soldiers must be given more power in the government because of their actions in the war.
2. Americans should honor the sacrifice of soldiers by continuing democratic government.
3. Presidents should decide important issues, including the debates over slavery.
4. Government of the people, by the people, and for the people is no longer important.

1 answer

The best summary of President Lincoln's meaning in the last sentence of his Gettysburg Address is:

  1. Americans should honor the sacrifice of soldiers by continuing democratic government.

In this conclusion, Lincoln emphasizes the importance of the principles of democracy and urges the living to ensure that the government remains representative of and accountable to the people, as a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the Civil War.