—Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address by Abraham Lincoln. “Fondly do we hope— fervently do we pray— that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away.” What does the term Scourge mean as it is used in the text to the last paragraph?

Question

A)ally
B)blessing
C)curse
D)surprise

Answer 1

C) curse

The term "scourge" in this context refers to the terrible suffering and devastation caused by war. Lincoln is expressing his hope and prayer that the destructive impact of war will come to an end quickly.