History The Declaration Of Independence Questions
The main difference between the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address is their purpose and context.
The Declaration of Independence, written in 1776, was a formal document declaring the American colonies' separation from Great Britain. It outlined the reasons for independence and asserted the natural rights of individuals, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration of Independence served as a foundational document for the United States, establishing the principles of self-government and individual rights.
On the other hand, the Gettysburg Address was a speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 during the American Civil War. It was given at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, following a significant battle. The Gettysburg Address aimed to honor the soldiers who had died in the battle and to redefine the purpose of the war. Lincoln emphasized the preservation of the Union and the ideals of equality and democracy, stating that the nation was "conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
In summary, the Declaration of Independence was a formal declaration of independence from Great Britain, while the Gettysburg Address was a speech given during the Civil War to honor fallen soldiers and redefine the purpose of the war.