In Lincoln’s view, the fighting at Gettysburg brought the Union closer to victory. He emphasizes the idea that the sacrifices made by those who fought there should inspire the living to continue the work toward achieving the goals of the Union and to honor the fallen by dedicating themselves to the "unfinished work" of the nation. This suggests that while Gettysburg was a significant battle, the struggle for freedom and unity was still ongoing, and it was imperative for the living to carry on that effort.
In this section of the address, Lincoln talks about the work that the Union still needs to accomplish.
What did the fighting at Gettysburg accomplish, in Lincoln’s view?
It accomplished very little.
It won the war for the Union.
It brought the Union closer to victory.
It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us.
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