I think there are very few critical thinkers or students of history on this commentary page. Those who understood Lincoln's posture from the point in history he is quoted, good job. Further, I note that those so prone to invective paid no attention to other Lincoln quotes condemning slavery. Of course, some here demonstrate only unreconcilable hatred and are themselves racist. If not for Lincoln and many others, all those who died in defense of union, slavery may have endured much longer in the United States.