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Independence Hall, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
February 22, 1861
This [all men are created equal] is the sentiment embodied in the Declaration of Independence.
Now, my friends, can this country be saved upon that basis? If it can, I will consider myself one
of the happiest men in the world, if I can help save it. If it cannot be saved upon that principle, it
will be truly awful. But if this country cannot be saved without giving up that principle, I was
about to say I would rather be assassinated on this spot, than surrender it.