Why Does Abraham Lincoln Use Formal Diction in the Gettysburg Address

Introduction

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is one of the most iconic speeches in American history. Given during the American Civil War, the address commemorated the soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of Gettysburg. One striking aspect of the speech is Lincoln’s use of formal diction, characterized by elevated and precise language. In this essay, we will explore the reasons why Lincoln opted for formal diction in the Gettysburg Address, analyzing its rhetorical impact and the context in which the speech was delivered.

Significance of the Occasion

The Gettysburg Address was delivered at a solemn and pivotal moment in American history. The battle had claimed thousands of lives, and the nation was in mourning. As the president, Lincoln had the responsibility to honor the fallen soldiers and convey a message of hope and unity. By employing formal diction, Lincoln aimed to elevate the speech’s importance and capture the gravity of the occasion.

Establishing Credibility and Authority

Lincoln’s use of formal diction in the Gettysburg Address served to enhance his credibility and authority as a leader. By employing precise and sophisticated language, he conveyed a sense of intellectual prowess and mastery of the subject matter. This choice of diction positioned him as a knowledgeable and respected figure, which strengthened his persuasive power and ability to influence the audience.

Emphasizing the Importance of the Address

The Gettysburg Address was a concise and impactful speech, with Lincoln delivering profound ideas in a short amount of time. The use of formal diction contributed to the weightiness of the address, allowing Lincoln to convey complex ideas and evoke strong emotions within a limited space. The choice of precise and elevated language added a sense of depth and significance to the words spoken, underscoring the importance of the address in the historical context.

Reflecting the Formality of the Occasion

The commemoration of fallen soldiers in the Gettysburg Address demanded a certain level of formality. The speech was delivered at a dedication ceremony for the Gettysburg National Cemetery, where individuals of high social standing, including government officials and military leaders, were in attendance. By using formal diction, Lincoln matched the solemnity and formality of the occasion, adhering to the expectations and norms of the event.

Enhancing Rhetorical Impact

Formal diction plays a crucial role in shaping the rhetorical impact of the Gettysburg Address. The precision and eloquence of the language helped to convey Lincoln’s message with clarity and resonance. The use of formal diction allowed him to craft memorable phrases and employ rhetorical devices such as parallelism and antithesis, which added to the power and effectiveness of his speech.

Conclusion

Abraham Lincoln’s choice to use formal diction in the Gettysburg Address served multiple purposes. It added gravity and importance to the occasion, enhanced his credibility and authority, emphasized the significance of the address, matched the formality of the event, and contributed to the rhetorical impact of the speech. By employing precise and elevated language, Lincoln captured the attention and emotions of his audience, leaving a lasting impression on the collective memory of the nation. The formal diction used in the Gettysburg Address remains a testament to Lincoln’s skill as a communicator and his ability to inspire and unite a divided nation.

Essay on Abraham Lincoln Challenge

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is widely regarded as one of the greatest leaders in American history. Throughout his presidency, Lincoln faced numerous challenges and made critical decisions that shaped the course of the nation. This essay aims to provide an informative overview of the key challenges that Lincoln encountered during his tenure and how he navigated them with resilience and determination.

One of the most significant challenges that Lincoln faced was the preservation of the Union during the Civil War. When Lincoln assumed office in 1861, the United States was on the brink of division, with secessionist states forming the Confederate States of America. Lincoln firmly believed in the unity of the nation and was determined to prevent the dissolution of the Union. He skillfully maneuvered political and military strategies to preserve the Union and ultimately succeeded with the Union’s victory in the war.

Another formidable challenge that Lincoln confronted was the issue of slavery. Lincoln held a deep conviction that slavery was morally wrong and sought to bring an end to this institution. However, he faced intense opposition from pro-slavery states and had to navigate the complex political landscape to push for emancipation. His issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 marked a significant step towards the abolition of slavery, although its full implementation would require further efforts even after the Civil War.

Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War also involved the challenge of maintaining the morale and support of the American people. The war resulted in immense loss of life and resources, and public opinion was divided. Lincoln had to navigate the delicate balance of keeping the Union together while addressing the concerns and grievances of both the Northern and Southern states. His ability to communicate effectively, his resilience in the face of criticism, and his commitment to democratic principles helped him rally the nation and garner support for his policies.

Furthermore, Lincoln faced challenges in terms of military leadership. He had to make crucial decisions regarding the appointment of generals and the formulation of military strategies. He grappled with finding competent commanders who could effectively lead the Union forces and achieve victory. Despite setbacks and disappointments, Lincoln remained steadfast in his pursuit of victory, ultimately finding success with the leadership of generals such as Ulysses S. Grant.

Lastly, Lincoln faced personal challenges as he dealt with the immense pressure and responsibility of leading a nation during a time of crisis. The weight of the decisions he made and the toll of the war took a significant toll on his physical and mental well-being. Nevertheless, Lincoln persevered, displaying resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Abraham Lincoln confronted numerous challenges during his presidency, particularly during the Civil War. The preservation of the Union, the abolition of slavery, maintaining public support, military leadership, and personal pressures were among the key challenges he faced. Through his strong leadership, effective communication, and unwavering commitment to his principles, Lincoln successfully navigated these challenges and left an indelible mark on American history. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and principled leadership in times of adversity.

‘Abraham Lincoln the Man behind the Myths’: Summary Essay

In “Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind the Myths,” author Stephen B. Oates provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the life and character of one of America’s most iconic figures, Abraham Lincoln. Oates seeks to unravel the myths and legends surrounding Lincoln and present a more nuanced understanding of the man and his presidency.

Oates begins by acknowledging the enduring legacy of Lincoln, noting that he is often remembered as the Great Emancipator and the savior of the Union. However, he argues that these grand narratives have sometimes overshadowed the complexities and contradictions of Lincoln’s character and the challenges he faced during his presidency.

Throughout the book, Oates delves into various aspects of Lincoln’s life, from his early years in rural Kentucky to his rise as a politician in Illinois. He explores Lincoln’s personal struggles, including his battle with depression and his troubled marriage to Mary Todd Lincoln. Oates also examines Lincoln’s political career and his evolution as a leader, particularly during the tumultuous years of the Civil War.

One of the key themes that Oates addresses is Lincoln’s commitment to preserving the Union. He highlights Lincoln’s unwavering determination to maintain the integrity of the United States and his willingness to make difficult decisions, even when faced with significant opposition. Oates emphasizes that Lincoln’s primary goal was not initially the abolition of slavery but rather the preservation of the Union. However, he argues that Lincoln’s views on slavery evolved over time, leading to the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation and his firm stance against the institution.

Another aspect of Lincoln’s character that Oates explores is his leadership style. He portrays Lincoln as a shrewd and pragmatic politician who carefully navigated the political landscape of his time. Oates discusses Lincoln’s skillful use of rhetoric and his ability to communicate effectively with both the American people and his political opponents. He also acknowledges Lincoln’s willingness to surround himself with talented advisors, such as Secretary of State William H. Seward and General Ulysses S. Grant, who played instrumental roles in shaping his presidency.

Furthermore, Oates addresses the myths and legends that have been perpetuated about Lincoln, such as the notion of his humble origins and his transformation from a self-taught lawyer to the leader of a nation. He examines the historical accuracy of these narratives and seeks to present a more nuanced understanding of Lincoln’s life and achievements.

In conclusion, “Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind the Myths” provides a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the life and presidency of Abraham Lincoln. Oates challenges popular narratives and delves into the complexities of Lincoln’s character, highlighting his commitment to the preservation of the Union, his evolving views on slavery, and his pragmatic leadership style. By examining the man behind the myths, Oates offers readers a deeper understanding of one of America’s most revered and enigmatic figures.

Abraham Lincoln Vs Hitler: Compare and Contrast Essay

Introduction

Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler were two prominent leaders who emerged in different historical contexts and held starkly contrasting ideologies. This essay aims to compare and contrast the leadership styles, beliefs, and legacies of these two influential figures. While Lincoln is celebrated for his efforts in preserving the Union and championing equality, Hitler is infamous for his tyrannical rule and perpetration of atrocities during World War II.

Thesis Statement

Despite their differences, Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler both exercised significant influence over their respective nations, albeit with drastically contrasting intentions and outcomes.

Leadership Styles

Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler possessed distinct leadership styles. Lincoln adopted a democratic and inclusive approach, valuing the opinions and contributions of his cabinet members and seeking to unite a divided nation. In contrast, Hitler was an autocratic leader who centralized power, demanding absolute loyalty and obedience from his subordinates. Hitler’s leadership style was characterized by fear, intimidation, and the suppression of dissenting voices.

Beliefs and Ideologies

Abraham Lincoln’s beliefs centered on democracy, freedom, and equality. He firmly opposed slavery and fought to eradicate it, viewing it as a moral and social evil. Lincoln’s vision for the United States was one of unity, where all individuals, regardless of race or background, could enjoy equal rights and opportunities. In stark contrast, Adolf Hitler espoused a racist and supremacist ideology. He propagated a twisted vision of Aryan superiority and sought to establish a totalitarian regime based on Nazi ideology, which included the extermination of millions of innocent people, particularly Jews and other marginalized groups.

Impact and Legacies

The impact and legacies of Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler couldn’t be more disparate. Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War resulted in the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery, marking a pivotal moment in American history. His legacy as the “Great Emancipator” and his contributions to American democracy are widely celebrated. Conversely, Hitler’s reign as the leader of Nazi Germany led to immense suffering, devastation, and loss of human life. His genocidal policies, including the Holocaust, forever tarnished his name, and he is universally condemned for his role in initiating World War II.

Conclusion

Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler stand as polar opposites in terms of their leadership styles, beliefs, and legacies. While Lincoln fought to unify a divided nation and championed the values of freedom and equality, Hitler pursued a path of hatred, discrimination, and mass destruction. Lincoln’s legacy continues to inspire and serves as a reminder of the importance of democracy and justice, whereas Hitler’s legacy serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and extremist ideologies. By contrasting these two leaders, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact leaders can have on societies and the crucial role they play in shaping the course of history.

Did Lincoln Abuse His Power: Persuasive Essay

Introduction:

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is widely regarded as one of the nation’s greatest leaders. However, there has been ongoing debate about whether Lincoln abused his power during his presidency. This persuasive essay aims to argue that Lincoln did not abuse his power but rather exercised it responsibly and with the utmost regard for the preservation of the Union and the principles of democracy.

Body:

Preservation of the Union:

One of the key arguments against Lincoln’s alleged abuse of power is the context in which he assumed office. The nation was on the brink of civil war, and Lincoln’s primary objective was to preserve the Union. As the Commander-in-Chief, he took decisive actions to uphold the integrity of the nation, including the enforcement of federal authority in secessionist states. While some may argue that these actions infringed upon states’ rights, Lincoln’s primary focus was on maintaining the Union, which was essential to the stability and future prosperity of the country.

Suspension of Habeas Corpus:

Critics often point to Lincoln’s suspension of habeas corpus during the Civil War as evidence of his abuse of power. However, it is crucial to understand the extraordinary circumstances under which this action was taken. Lincoln faced significant challenges, including internal threats and espionage, which necessitated measures to protect national security. The suspension of habeas corpus, while controversial, was a temporary and limited response aimed at maintaining order and preventing potential disruptions to the war effort. It is essential to view this action within the context of the immense pressures and threats that Lincoln faced during the war.

Emancipation Proclamation:

Another aspect often cited in discussions of Lincoln’s abuse of power is the Emancipation Proclamation. Critics argue that Lincoln exceeded his constitutional authority by issuing an executive order that impacted the institution of slavery. However, it is important to recognize that the Proclamation was a strategic military measure and a powerful moral statement against slavery. Lincoln saw it as a necessary step to weaken the Confederate war effort and align the Union cause with the principles of freedom and equality. Moreover, the Proclamation was later ratified by the Thirteenth Amendment, ensuring the permanent abolition of slavery.

Commitment to Democratic Principles:

Throughout his presidency, Lincoln consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to democratic principles. He respected the rule of law, sought the counsel of his cabinet and advisors, and operated within the framework of the Constitution. Lincoln’s policies, including the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation and the pursuit of the Thirteenth Amendment, were driven by his belief in the fundamental principles of liberty and equality for all citizens. These actions were not abuses of power but rather transformative steps towards a more just and inclusive society.

Conclusion:

Abraham Lincoln’s presidency was marked by immense challenges and a profound dedication to the preservation of the Union and the principles of democracy. While critics may argue that he abused his power, a careful examination of his actions reveals a responsible exercise of authority within the context of a nation torn apart by civil war. Lincoln’s focus on preserving the Union, his strategic measures to ensure national security, and his unwavering commitment to democratic principles underscore his responsible use of power. Therefore, it is evident that Lincoln did not abuse his power but rather demonstrated exceptional leadership during one of the most critical periods in American history.

Essay about Abraham Lincoln the Gettysburg Address

Introduction:

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and influential speeches in American history. Delivered on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the address encapsulates Lincoln’s profound reflections on the significance of the Civil War and the ideals of freedom and equality. This essay will examine the rhetorical strategies employed by Lincoln in his Gettysburg Address, highlighting its enduring power and impact on the nation.

Body:

Use of Ethos:

In the opening lines of the Gettysburg Address, Lincoln establishes his credibility and ethos as the President of the United States, entrusted with the responsibility of preserving the Union and leading the nation through the Civil War. His authority lends weight to his words, reinforcing the importance of the occasion and the gravity of the sacrifices made by the soldiers.

Appeal to Emotion:

Lincoln skillfully employs pathos throughout the speech, aiming to stir the emotions of his audience and create a deep sense of connection. By referencing the hallowed ground of Gettysburg as the final resting place for those who gave their lives, he evokes a profound sense of loss and sacrifice. Lincoln’s use of emotionally charged language elicits feelings of patriotism, grief, and determination.

Logical Appeal:

The Gettysburg Address also employs logos, employing logical reasoning to support Lincoln’s central argument. He emphasizes the significance of the nation’s founding principles, as stated in the Declaration of Independence, and links the Civil War to the ongoing struggle to uphold those ideals. Lincoln’s concise yet powerful argumentation highlights the necessity of preserving the Union and the noble cause for which the soldiers fought.

Parallelism and Repetition:

Lincoln utilizes rhetorical devices such as parallelism and repetition to reinforce key ideas and create a rhythmic and memorable speech. The famous phrase “government of the people, by the people, for the people” showcases parallel structure, emphasizing the essence of democracy and the importance of a government that serves the citizens.

Call to Action:

In the concluding portion of the address, Lincoln delivers a compelling call to action, urging the listeners to honor the fallen soldiers by dedicating themselves to the unfinished work of preserving the Union and upholding the principles of equality. His words inspire a sense of duty and responsibility, galvanizing the nation to carry on the struggle for freedom and justice.

Conclusion:

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address stands as a masterful example of rhetorical prowess, effectively utilizing ethos, pathos, and logos to convey a powerful message of unity, sacrifice, and the pursuit of liberty. The address transcends its historical context and remains a testament to the enduring values of the United States. Through his skillful use of rhetorical devices, Lincoln captured the nation’s attention, stirred their emotions, and called them to action. The Gettysburg Address continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the profound impact of words and the power of effective rhetoric in shaping our collective understanding of history and the ideals for which we strive

Details of Abraham Lincoln’s Health Troubles, Weight Fluctuations and Eventual Death

The history of the United States of America will never be complete without the mention of the name Abraham Lincoln. The late politician who happened to have served as the 16th President of the United States is respected for the role he played in keeping America together during the bloody American Civil War and has been hailed as the ‘champion for human liberty’ in many quarters. His name reverberates with excellence and he is considered to be one of the greatest presidents in American history.However, even with all his achievements, Abraham Lincoln was bedeviled by several health issues that threatened to cut him off from the world a long time before he eventually died.Abraham Lincoln’s Battle With Health ProblemsBorn on February 12, 1809, in a one-room log cabin on the Sinking Spring Farm near Hodgenville, Kentucky, Abraham Lincoln grew up battling with different health challenges. He, however, survived them all and managed to grow up into an adult. In 1818, when Lincoln was just 9 years old, he got kicked in the head by a horse during an accident and this sent him into a 24-hour bout of unconsciousness. During this time, there were fears that he might die. However, he survived the incident. Abraham Lincoln is also reported to have battled with malaria on more than one occasion. At about the age of 21 in 1830, he went down with malaria and had to be revived back to health. This first case was not so serious, however, his second experience battling malaria in 1835 was more severe. This time, he had to be moved to a neighbor’s house to be treated. Eventually, he survived. The same year, in 1835, Lincoln also battled Syphilis, a bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The veracity of this particular story is often debated today. However, it is on record that William Herndon, one of Lincoln’s close friends who was also his biographer and law partner, insisted that the former president really had Syphilis. According to Herndon, Lincoln told him about the infection. In 1863, when Lincoln was already the president of the United States, he contracted smallpox, a very infectious disease. The disease had a serious effect on the former president. In fact, it is reported that the disease greatly affected his White House routine and also limited the number of advisors that he could meet with considering the fact smallpox was infectious. Also, it is on record Abraham Lincoln’s valet identified as William H. Johnson contracted the smallpox disease while caring for Lincoln and eventually died from it. However, Lincoln survived it.His mental healthOne of the most discussed aspects of Abraham Lincoln’s health was his mental state of mind. Some have opined that the former president was insane, but does this opinion really hold water?Our investigation shows that Abraham Lincoln never suffered bouts of insanity, however, he suffered bouts of clinical depression throughout his life. He was melancholy and was moody many times. This may have been caused by the many challenges he faced in his life including tragedies like the loss of Ann Rutledge, his first love. He is also reported to have suffered occasional depression whenever he got betrayed by people that he trusted especially because he was too trusting.To treat his depression, som reports have claimed that Abraham Lincoln took some blue mass pills and also tried to delve into works of humor to ease him up.

The Day Abraham Lincoln DiedOn April 14, 1865, the world came to a standstill; it was Good Friday and the day Abraham Lincoln was brutally murdered. The former president was attending a play at Ford’s Theatre which was located at Washington D.C. when he was assassinated by a man called John Wilkes Booth.John Wilkes Booth was an American actor who comes from the prominent Booth theatrical family that ruled the 19th-century. Booth was angered that President Lincoln was promoting voting rights for blacks and so he decided to kill the president. When he found out that Lincoln was going to attend the play at Ford’s Theatre, he went to the venue of the play to carry out his act.Eventually, by about 10:13, Booth crept up from behind and fired at the back of Abraham Lincoln’s head. Lincoln died some hours later on April 15, 1865, after remaining in a coma for about 9 hours. Booth was eventually caught and killed after refusing to surrender.What Was Abraham Lincoln’s Actual Weight?Though he had some pretty good muscle structure as a young man, Abraham Lincoln had always been thin. There are some questionable claims that the former POTUS weighed over 90 kilograms in 1931, but it clashes with some more reliable statements over time. Apparently, Henry Lee Ross stated that Lincoln never weighed over 79 kilograms in his life.

In addition to that David Turnham recollected that Abraham weighed about 72 kilograms in 1830 and a neighbor of his from New Salem named Camron crudely described him using the words ‘thin as a beanpole and ugly as a scarecrow’.So what did the 16th POTUS say his weight was? According to him, he weighed 81.5 kilograms in 1859 and he is believed to have weighed a lot less during his actual presidency.

Essay on What Was Lincoln’s Purpose in Writing the Gettysburg Address

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, delivered on November 19, 1863, during the American Civil War, is a masterpiece of succinctness and profound meaning. In a mere 272 words, Lincoln encapsulated the nation’s struggle and aimed to inspire unity and dedication among the American people. While some may argue that his purpose was solely to honor fallen soldiers, a deeper analysis reveals that Lincoln had a broader, more strategic intent – to redefine the principles upon which the United States stood and to galvanize the nation’s resolve to preserve the Union.

Redefining the Nation’s Principles

One key purpose of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address was to redefine the principles upon which the United States was founded. In the opening lines, Lincoln declared, “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” By invoking the Declaration of Independence, Lincoln sought to rekindle the belief in the fundamental ideals of equality and liberty. He aimed to remind the nation that the Civil War was not just a struggle to preserve the Union but also a battle to uphold the principles that the nation was built upon.

Unity and Preservation of the Union

Lincoln’s central purpose in writing the Gettysburg Address was to foster unity and underscore the importance of preserving the Union. The address came at a crucial moment in the Civil War when the nation was deeply divided. By emphasizing the need to ensure “that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth,” Lincoln appealed to a shared sense of purpose and destiny. He argued that the survival of the United States as a united nation was essential not only for the current generation but for future generations as well.

Persuasion and Rallying Support

Another critical purpose of Lincoln’s address was to persuade and rally support for his administration’s policies. Lincoln recognized the need to maintain public support for the war effort, especially considering the heavy casualties and challenges faced by both the soldiers and civilians. By framing the conflict as a test of whether a government “conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal” could endure, Lincoln aimed to motivate the American people to endure the hardships of war and continue supporting his administration’s efforts to preserve the Union.

A Call to Action

Lincoln’s address also served as a call to action. He stated that the nation’s resolve would ensure “that these dead shall not have died in vain – that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom.” Lincoln called upon the audience to honor the sacrifices of those who had perished by dedicating themselves to the cause of preserving the Union and upholding the principles of liberty and equality. This call to action was intended to inspire not only the soldiers on the battlefield but also the entire nation to continue their commitment to the cause.

Conclusion: A Transformative Message

In conclusion, while it is true that Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address aimed to honor fallen soldiers, its purpose was far more profound and strategic. Lincoln sought to redefine the principles of the nation, foster unity, persuade and rally support, and issue a call to action. The address’s enduring impact lies in its ability to resonate with generations to come, reminding them of the ideals that the United States stands for and the sacrifices made to preserve those ideals. As a result, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address remains one of the most iconic and persuasive speeches in American history, encapsulating the spirit and resolve of a nation in turmoil.

Similarities Between Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy

While several presidents died while in office, not many presidents have been assassinated. A surprising number became the target of assassination plots, but just four were assassinated: Abraham Lincoln, James A. Garfield, William McKinley, and John F. Kennedy. Over the years, people have noted some striking similarities between the two most famous presidents on that list: Lincoln and Kennedy.

Do those eerie parallels reveal something about why both Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy were assassinated? Read on to discover which of these parallels are as disturbing as they seem, which amount to nothing more than ordinary coincidences, and which are actually just false.

As Snopes reports, a list of coincidences seemingly linking Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy isn’t exactly what it seems. “Several of these entries are either misleading or factually incorrect,” Snopes explains. “And the rest are mostly mere superficial coincidences that fail to touch upon the much more substantial differences and dissimilarities that underlie them.” It’s true that Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy were elected to Congress 100 years apart. But Snopes notes that otherwise, their political careers bore little resemblance to one another.

Similarly,Abraham Lincoln did become president in 1860. And John F. Kennedy did ascend to that office 1960. But as Snopes points out, that “coincidence” seems less surprising when you remember that presidential elections happen only once every four years. “So, even though both men were politically active at the national level during eight-year spans when they might have been elected President, circumstances dictated that the only years during those spans when they both could have been elected were exactly one hundred years apart,” the publication explains. Plus, Abraham Lincoln had won re-election to a second term as president. But Kennedy died before he completed his first.

The names “Lincoln” and “Kennedy” do both have seven letters. But Snopes characterizes this is as “the most trivial of coincidences.” The average length of presidential surnames sits right at 6.64 letters. And Snopes notes that when people talk about the similarities between Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy, they fail to mention that the two men’s first names contain different numbers of letters. And they definitely don’t bring up the fact that Kennedy had a middle name, while Lincoln didn’t.

Another supposed coincidence linking Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy points to both presidents’ involvement in civil rights issues. But Snopes quickly debunks that unremarkable connection. “Saying that Lincoln and Kennedy were both ‘particularly concerned with civil rights’ is like saying that Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Roosevelt were both ‘particularly concerned with war,’ or that Herbert Hoover and Ronald Reagan were both ‘particularly concerned with economics.’” As Snopes notes, presidents deal with the issues that face the nation during their presidencies. (Though some have managed to be racist regardless of the events happening at the time.)

Snopes characterizes the statement that both Lincoln and Kennedy’s wives lost children while living in the White House as one that “encompasses events that were completely different in circumstance and nature.” Mary Todd Lincoln bore all of the couple’s children before Abraham Lincoln became president. The Lincolns lost two children, one of whom died at the White House at the age of 11. Kennedy and his wife were actually still young enough to be bearing children. And a premature child born to Jacqueline Kennedy in 1963 died two days later.

Both Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy died on a Friday. But Snopes notes that this shouldn’t surprise anybody. After all, we only have seven days in a week. “Absent all other factors, the odds were already an unremarkable one in seven that both killings would have occurred on the same day of the week. (No, the odds are not one in 49; that’s a common mistake made by statistical novices.)”

The men who killed Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy shot the presidents in the head. But Snopes characterizes this similarity as “exceedingly trivial in nature.” As the publication points out, chest shots and head shots remain “the only two types of shots which reasonably assure a dead victim,” both assassins’ objective. Morbid as it sounds, it hardly seems coincidental that both assassins chose to shoot the president in the head. Plus, both Lincoln and Kennedy were shot from behind and while seated. That means that their assassins couldn’t very well have chosen a target other than their heads.

Conversely, it’s true that both Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy were succeeded by southerners. But only because both chose southerners as their vice presidents. Snopes characterizes that fact as “hardly surprising considering the historical circumstances of their times.” Lincoln needed a southerner to balance the ticket in a time of civil war. In fact, Lincoln chose the only southern senator who refused to follow his state when it seceded. And because Kennedy represented new England, he needed a vice president who could appeal to the southern and western parts of the country.

Abraham Lincoln chose Andrew Johnson as his vice president. John F. Kennedy chose Lyndon B. Johnson. So after each president’s assassination, their vice presidents succeeded them. But Snopes notes that this coincidence — that both presidents had successors named Johnson — seems fairly unremarkable. “Given the high frequency of ‘Johnson’ (literally ‘son of John’) as a surname in both Lincoln’s and Kennedy’s time, this ‘coincidence’ should be no real surprise to anyone,” the publication explains.

Andrew Johnson and Lyndon Johnson had birth dates 100 years apart. But Snopes reports that, yet again, the hundred-year coincidence shouldn’t surprise anyone. “There’s nothing ‘coincidental’ about events merely because they somehow involve the number 100,” the publication explains. “If we sifted through all the Lincoln/Kennedy data, we could produce multiple instances of events involving the number 17 or 49 or 116, but nobody would consider those ‘coincidences’ because they don’t yield nice round numbers that have any significance to us.”

Snopes characterizes this final parallel as “superficial.” And the publication also calls into question the use of the word “assassinated.” After Booth shot Lincoln, he fled the scene and eluded capture for 11 days. Federal troops discovered him hiding on a farm, and set fire to the shed when he refused to surrender. A trooper shot Booth, aiming for his arm but striking his neck instead. Conversely, Oswald was arrested and remained in custody for two days before a private citizen named Jack Ruby shot him.

As Snopes demonstrates, most of these parallels are superficial coincidences. Most are explained by mere chance. And as much as we would like to know exactly why two of our most loved presidents were assassinated, these coincidences offer no such explanation for these tragic events.

Final Essay on Abraham Lincoln in the Bardo

Refusing to leave the only world they know, spirits are unable to move on through the Bardo to the next step in the cycle of life, creating a recurring theme of the desire for immortality tainting reality in George Saunders’ Lincoln in the Bardo. They are held back by their regrets of things they left undone in life or wishes to remain with their loved ones, not realizing that they are dead and that there is no way to go back to their lives.

The desire for immortality paints the storyline of Lincoln in the Bardo. The spirits have left things undone back in the living world, and they hope to return, so they delude themselves, believing that they are simply ill, and not truly dead. They use softer terms to underplay their unpleasant conditions. The coffin is a “sick-box” (Saunders 5), the hearse is a “sick-cart” (Saunders 6), and dead bodies are simply “sick-form[s]” (Saunders 58). Being dead makes one “unlovable” (Saunders 70), and the ghosts of Oak Lawn Cemetery yearn for love more than anything. When Willie Lincoln arrives in the Bardo and his father, Abraham Lincoln, visits his grave to hold his lifeless body, the other souls in the Bardo are shocked. This creates the hope that their loved ones will come back for them, too, allowing them to reunite and go back to that life with them. “To be touched so lovingly, so fondly, as if one were still—Healthy. As if one were still worthy of affection and respect? It was cheering. It gave us hope. We were perhaps not so unloveable as we had come to believe” (Saunders 70), Roger Bevins III, Hans Vollman, and the Reverend Everly Thomas say. They continue to hope that their current state is only temporary and that they can go back to the world and remain immortal. This is the understanding and mindset of the souls in the Bardo for the majority of the book until this hope is taken away from them by Willie’s revelation on their condition.

After Willie realized that he was dead through hearing his father say it himself, he turned to the Bardo-dwellers and told them “May I tell you something?…You are not sick…There is a name for what ails us…Do you not know it? Do you really not know it?…Dead…Everyone, we are dead!” (Saunders 195-196). Suddenly, the matterlightblooming phenomenon occurred, and those who succeed are transported into the next realm. This clears the shocked souls of their desire to stay behind. The souls are unintelligent, and their fear of “leaving behind forever the beautiful things of this world” (Saunders 140) takes on an unrealistic magnificence, as even after Willie’s claims, many continue to refuse the truth. But little by little, more are able to move on through matterlightblooming. However, some continue to remain in the Bardo to await those who are still alive in joining them, that desire for immortality remaining, even in the slightest. Although they have accepted that they cannot be immortal, they still linger because of their attachment to the living world. The Bardo is a place of unfinished business, nostalgic longing, and hope for interaction with the living.

These souls refuse to admit that they have died, instead insisting that they’re merely recovering. This represents a human quality in the souls: the fear and hostility to the fact that life is impermanent. Instead of accepting that life eventually ends, they create ways of fooling themselves into believing that they will soon return to the lives they once led. President Lincoln himself realizes that he has been ignorant towards life’s impermanence, thinking that he would be with Willie forever. Saunders shows this as an unrealistic belief, and implies that change and impermanence are what make up human life. By presenting a lack of change as unnatural for humans, he suggests that people should appreciate life by understanding that it is a gift whose value is increased by its impermanence, not lessened. Saunders emphasizes that the time we have should not be taken for granted because we never know when it will be taken from us, so we should do our best to not have regrets and to express our love before it is too late. But even if we are unsuccessful at this, we should not dwell on it and should realize that everything happens for a reason.