Final answer:
In the given context, 'confer' means to bestow or grant. It implies that the people's celebrations and presence honor and give hope to the idea of newly acquired freedom.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term confer in this context means to grant or bestow something. In the statement given, it suggests that the presence and celebrations of people are bestowing glory and hope onto the concept of newborn liberty. It's about recognizing and giving honor to the new freedom that has emerged. Events like the Gettysburg Address, the declarations of independence, and the determination to maintain liberty throughout history reflect this act of conferring importance and respect to the ideals of freedom and equality.