Lincoln: “A House Divided…”
February 12th, 2009 by erikaIn a time when politicians bicker over a wide range of issues – from the economy to war in Afghanistan and Iraq – it benefits us all to look back to an era when politics truly divided the nation. During the 1860’s, the Civil War turned brother against brother and war tore our new nation to pieces.
As we celebrate the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, it’s important to remind ourselves of the ideals that he espoused during this tumultuous time: unity and togetherness in the face of disagreement. In Lincoln’s own words: “a house divided against itself cannot stand.”
This said, it’s important to clarify one thing: I don’t believe – as many people have said – that we have entered an era of post-partisan politics. The ideals of one side do not triumph over those of the other. To the contrary, it is those very disagreements that make the entire experiment in democracy worthwhile. It is the passion and fervor of Americans who engage each other in this debate that help define the ever changing face of our nation.
In the grand cacophony of voices in American history, we remember Lincoln and Davis, Goldwater and Johnson, Carter and Reagan, McCain and Obama (Olbermann and O’Reilly??). The historian’s job is to make sense of these opposing viewpoints and recount an inclusive narrative that interprets both sides.
So in this time of division and change it’s important not to despair but to ENGAGE in the conversation. More young people than ever are getting into the debate by reading the newspaper, by starting nonprofit organizations, and even running for office. New conversations are starting all over the country.
Start your own… right here. Comment on a video. Make your own PSA on an issue that matters to you. Make a political ad endorsing Lincoln’s presidency… or Davis’! Mix up the conversation. Remix America!
well said and inspiring. i think that’s what lincoln would want for the big 200.