Did Abraham Lincoln Know His Target Audience During the Gettysburg Address?

When Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address on November 19, 1863, he was well aware of who his target audience was. His speech resonated with various groups, each with its unique concerns and expectations. This article explores how Lincoln crafted his speech to address these different audiences and why his famous two-minute address became a pivotal moment in American history.

The Attendees of the Dedication Ceremony

The Gettysburg Address was delivered during the dedication ceremony for the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The audience included government officials, soldiers, and citizens who had gathered to honor the Union soldiers who died in the Battle of Gettysburg. Lincoln understood that these individuals were deeply affected by the loss of their comrades and the sacrifices they had made. He aimed to evoke a sense of shared sacrifice, recognizing and commemorating the countless lives lost in the Civil War.

The American Public

Lincoln was conscious of the broader audience, which included both Northern and Southern citizens. He sought to communicate themes of national purpose and unity. In an era of division and conflict, Lincoln's speech was designed to appeal to the democratic values and principles of liberty and equality that were central to the nation's founding. By emphasizing these ideals, he aimed to bridge the gap between conflicting regions and inspire a renewed commitment to the Union's cause.

Future Generations

Lincoln's address also had a future-oriented aspect. He framed the Civil War as a test of the nation's commitment to its founding ideals. By doing so, he inspired future generations of Americans to uphold these principles. The Gettysburg Address is often seen as a seminal moment in American history, invigorating the spirit of the nation and reaffirming its democratic values for years to come.

Lincoln's Speechcraft and Audience Understanding

It is important to note that the Gettysburg Address was not the focal point of the ceremony. Edward Everett, a noted orator of the time, was invited to deliver the keynote address, which was expected to be longer and more elaborate. Everett gave an impressive speech, but Lincoln's address, at just over two minutes, captured the essence of the event.

Lincoln was known for his straightforward and accessible speaking style, a rarity in the 19th century. He deliberately kept his vocabulary simple to ensure that everyone could understand him. Despite suffering from a minor illness on the day of the dedication, Lincoln delivered his speech with the confidence and clarity that only practiced orators possess. His speech was met with a polite but inconspicuous applause, and early photographic attempts to capture the event were unsuccessful due to his sudden departure from the dais.

The Aftermath and Legacy

Following the ceremony, Everett acknowledged the impact of Lincoln's speech. In a letter to Lincoln, Everett wrote, “I wish that I could flatter myself in saying that I came as near to the heart of the subject in two hours as you did in two minutes.” Everett's comment speaks to the lasting power and resonance of Lincoln's address.

The impact of the Gettysburg Address was immediate and profound. In the days and weeks following the speech, friends and followers requested copies of the address. Lincoln made some minor edits, changing about half the total sentences, but the final form of the address quickly became a source of pride and inspiration for future generations. The sentiment captured by historian Shelby Foote is fitting: "That speech did indeed scour, even in dark and bloody soil."

In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln was indeed aware of his target audience when delivering the Gettysburg Address. His understanding of the attendees, the public, and future generations allowed him to craft a speech that would become a cornerstone of American history.