Final answer:
The most important point in the Gettysburg Address is the democratic ideal of a government 'of the people, by the people, for the people.' The speech endures because of its clear expression of American democratic values and recognition of the Civil War's significance. Women and African Americans contributed significantly to the war effort.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most important point in Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is arguably the concept of a government "of the people, by the people, for the people". This notion captures the essence of democracy and reinforces the ideology that the nation was founded on the principles of liberty and equality. Lincoln underscores the significance of the Civil War as not just a battle to preserve the Union, but as a struggle to uphold these foundational values, ensuring that the sacrifice of the soldiers at Gettysburg was not in vain and that these ideals would continue to shape the nation's future.
Enduring Qualities of the Gettysburg Address
The enduring qualities of the Gettysburg Address include its succinctness, eloquence, and profound meaning. It has endured due to its concise articulation of the American ideals of democracy, freedom, and human equality. The speech is widely recognized for its power to convey the gravity of the Civil War and the honor due to those who perished, in just a few short minutes.
The Role of Women and African Americans
Women and African Americans played critical roles during the Civil War, contributing to the war effort in various capacities, including as nurses, spies, soldiers, and abolitionists. Their participation highlighted the diverse support for the Union cause and foreshadowed the future struggles for gender and racial equality.