Question

lincolns speech was one of the shortest speeches given at an inaugural address, but it was one of the most important speeches given. it addressed the number of deaths in the war and how to bring the nation back together successfully. he entered his first presidency thinking slavery would end. by the time he took the oath of office for his second term, he believed it would come to a swift end with victory. after reading the speech and reviewing the notes, complete the following activity. value: 2 please determine the meaning of the following quote and choose the sentence that best states that meaning. “it may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just gods assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other mens faces; but let us judge not, that we be not judged. the prayers of both could not be answered.” o a. it is odd that men are praying to a god who asks them to wring bread in mens faces before making a decision. o b. it is weird that both sides pray to the same god who must determine that one side is the victor and one side is the loser. o c. god wishes to punish the south for its actions.

Explanation:

Lincoln's quote reflects on the irony of both sides in the conflict praying to a just God while one side was relying on the labor of others (slavery). He also implies that God cannot answer both sides' prayers as they are in opposition. Option b best captures the idea that both sides are praying to the same God, and God has to determine a victor and a loser.

Answer:

B. It is weird that both sides pray to the same God who must determine that one side is the victor and one side is the loser.