The Gettysburg Address is one of the most iconic speeches in American history, delivered by President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. Its powerful words continue to resonate today, emphasizing themes of equality, sacrifice, and national unity. For educators, students, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in American heritage, having access to a printable version of the Gettysburg Address is invaluable. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the speech’s text, its historical context, and practical guidance on obtaining and using printable versions.
Understanding the Gettysburg Address
Historical Background
The Gettysburg Address was delivered on November 19, 1863, during the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Just four and a half months after the Battle of Gettysburg—a turning point in the Civil War—the speech aimed to honor fallen soldiers and redefine the purpose of the war effort. Lincoln’s words sought to remind Americans of the principles upon which the nation was founded, emphasizing liberty, equality, and democracy.
The speech is brief—only about two minutes long—yet its impact has been profound, shaping national identity and inspiring generations. It is often studied in schools, quoted in various contexts, and considered a masterpiece of rhetoric.
The Text of the Gettysburg Address
Original Text (1863)
The original speech was delivered in a concise, poetic style. Here is the full, authentic text as Lincoln delivered it:
> 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.
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> Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.
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> We are met on a great battlefield of that war.
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> It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
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> But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground.
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> The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.
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> The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.
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> It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced.
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> It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion—to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—
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> that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—
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> that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—
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> and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Modern Typed Version
For readability, many printed copies modernize punctuation and formatting while maintaining the original wording. Here’s an example:
"Four score and seven years ago"—a poetic way of saying 87 years ago—refers to 1776, the year of American independence.
Creating a Printable Version of the Gettysburg Address
Why Is a Printable Text Important?
A printable version allows educators to distribute copies easily, students to annotate or memorize the speech, and history buffs to keep a personal copy for study. It also ensures the text remains accessible offline, free from digital access issues.
How to Obtain a Printable Text
There are several methods to acquire a printable version:
1. Official Government and Educational Resources
Websites like the Library of Congress or the National Archives provide authoritative texts and printable PDFs.
2. Public Domain Texts
As the Gettysburg Address was delivered in 1863, it is in the public domain, making it legally free to reproduce and print.
3. Educational Publishers and Websites
Many educational platforms offer ready-to-print versions formatted for classroom use.
Formatting Tips for Printing
To maximize clarity and usability, consider the following formatting tips:
- Use clear, large fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial, size 12 or larger.
- Include the title centered at the top.
- Use line spacing of 1.5 or double for easy reading.
- Add margins of at least 1 inch.
- Include the source or reference at the bottom of the page.
- Optionally, add historical context or a brief biography of Lincoln.
Sample Printable Gettysburg Address Document
Below is a simple, clean version suitable for printing:
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The Gettysburg Address
Delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863
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.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.
We are met on a great battlefield of that war.
It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground.
The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.
The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.
It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced.
It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion—to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—
That we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—
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.
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Using and Distributing Printable Texts of the Gettysburg Address
Educational Use
Teachers can print copies for students, incorporate the speech into history lessons, or use it as a basis for memorization exercises.
Personal Use
History enthusiasts may print and frame the speech, or include it in personal collections or scrapbooks.
Public Display and Commemoration
During memorial events, printed copies serve as powerful visual aids, emphasizing the speech’s significance.
Additional Resources
- Official Transcripts and Audio: The Library of Congress offers audio recordings and transcripts.
- Historical Analyses: Numerous scholarly articles analyze the speech’s language and impact.
- Educational Guides: Many schools provide lesson plans and worksheets centered around the Gettysburg Address.
Conclusion
Having access to a printable text of the Gettysburg Address is essential for appreciating its historical importance and ensuring its words are preserved and shared across generations. Whether for classroom instruction, personal reflection, or commemorative purposes, a clear, accurate, and accessible version allows the timeless message of Lincoln’s speech to continue inspiring Americans and people worldwide. Remember, as Lincoln eloquently stated, it is the duty of the living to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and to uphold the enduring principles of democracy.
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Note: Always verify the source of your printable version to ensure accuracy. For official and most authentic texts, consult reputable sources such as the Library of Congress or the National Archives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the printable text of the Gettysburg Address?
The printable text of the Gettysburg Address is the full written speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It is widely available in historical documents and can be printed for educational or personal use.
Where can I find a free printable version of the Gettysburg Address?
You can find free printable versions of the Gettysburg Address on reputable history websites, educational resources, and digital archives like the National Archives or the Library of Congress.
Is the printable text of the Gettysburg Address available in different formats?
Yes, the Gettysburg Address can be found in various formats including PDF, Word documents, and plain text, making it easy to print or incorporate into educational materials.
Why is the printable text of the Gettysburg Address important for students?
Having a printable version allows students to study, memorize, and analyze the speech more easily, helping them understand its historical significance and rhetorical power.
How can I ensure the printable Gettysburg Address is accurate?
To ensure accuracy, use reputable sources such as official government archives, historical societies, or trusted educational websites that provide verified transcripts of Lincoln's speech.
Can I customize the printable text of the Gettysburg Address for educational purposes?
Yes, many printable versions can be customized to highlight key sections, add annotations, or include historical context, making them more engaging for educational use.
What is the length of the printable Gettysburg Address?
The speech is approximately 272 words long, and printable versions typically fit on one page, making it accessible for classroom reading or personal study.
Are there visual or annotated printable versions of the Gettysburg Address available?
Yes, some educational resources offer annotated or illustrated printable versions that include historical notes, images, and analysis to enhance understanding.
How can I use the printable Gettysburg Address in a classroom setting?
Teachers can print the speech for reading exercises, analyze its rhetorical devices, discuss its historical context, or assign memorization tasks to deepen students' engagement with American history.
