Four Score And 7 Years

Four Score and Seven Years Ago: Decoding Lincoln's Enduring Phrase

"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." This iconic opening to Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered on November 19, 1863, resonates even today, a testament to its powerful rhetoric and enduring historical significance. But what exactly does "four score and seven years" mean, and why did Lincoln choose this seemingly archaic phrasing? Understanding this seemingly simple phrase unlocks a deeper appreciation for the speech's context and Lincoln's masterful use of language.

Understanding "Four Score and Seven Years"

The phrase itself is a deliberate stylistic choice. "Score," in this context, is an archaic term for twenty. Therefore, "four score and seven years" translates to (4 x 20) + 7 = 87 years. Lincoln's calculated use of this older form of measurement wasn't accidental. It served several purposes:

• Evocative of the Past: The use of "score" immediately transports the listener back to a different era, emphasizing the historical weight of the moment. It connects the present (1863) with the past (1776), highlighting the continuous struggle for the ideals of the nation's founding.

• Biblical Allusion: The use of scores, a unit of measurement frequently found in the Bible, subtly connects the American experiment with a sense of divine purpose and historical destiny, a theme prevalent in American exceptionalism. This strengthens the moral authority of Lincoln's message.

• Rhetorical Power: The slightly unusual phrasing adds a certain gravitas and memorability to the sentence. It's more impactful and memorable than simply stating "eighty-seven years." The rhythm and cadence of the phrase enhance its lyrical quality, making it more easily etched in the listener's mind.

• Emphasis on Time Elapsed: The specific use of "four score and seven years" precisely marks the time elapsed since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This precise timeframe serves as a powerful backdrop against which Lincoln frames the ongoing Civil War and its implications for the nation's future.

The Historical Context: 1776 and the Declaration of Independence

The year 1776 holds profound significance in American history. It marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal document that declared the thirteen American colonies' independence from Great Britain. This document, with its powerful assertion of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," laid the foundation for a new nation built on the principles of liberty and equality. Lincoln's reference to 1776 in the Gettysburg Address wasn't merely a historical marker; it was a strategic move to connect the present struggle with the ideals of the nation's founding.

The Declaration of Independence, however, presented a paradox. While proclaiming equality, it initially excluded a significant portion of the population – enslaved African Americans. This hypocrisy, which Lincoln explicitly addresses later in the speech, created a profound internal tension within the nation that fueled the Civil War. By invoking 1776, Lincoln highlighted the unfinished business of the nation's founding – the need to finally live up to the ideals enshrined in the Declaration.

The Gettysburg Address: A Speech for the Ages

The Gettysburg Address was delivered during the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle of Gettysburg, fought just months earlier, was a pivotal turning point in the Civil War, a brutal and bloody conflict that threatened to tear the nation apart. Lincoln's speech, though brief, was a powerful articulation of the war's meaning and purpose. It wasn't just a commemoration of the fallen soldiers; it was a profound meditation on the nation's ideals, its past, and its future.

Lincoln's masterful use of language transformed a relatively short address into a timeless masterpiece. His choice of words, the structure of his sentences, and the overall tone of the speech all contributed to its enduring power. The reference to "four score and seven years," while seemingly small, was a crucial element in this overall rhetorical strategy.

The Significance of 87 Years: A Nation's Journey

The 87 years between 1776 and 1863 represent a significant period in American history. It was a time of immense growth, expansion, and internal conflict. The nation wrestled with questions of slavery, states' rights, and the very definition of what it meant to be American. The Civil War, the deadliest conflict in American history, served as a brutal test of the nation's ideals.

The 87 years weren't just a period of time; they were a journey – a journey towards realizing the promise of the Declaration of Independence. Lincoln, in his address, acknowledged both the progress made and the unfinished business that remained. He understood the need to reaffirm the nation's commitment to the principles of equality and liberty, especially in light of the immense sacrifice made by those who fought and died at Gettysburg.

Lincoln's Legacy: A Continuing Conversation

The Gettysburg Address isn't just a historical document; it's a living testament to the enduring power of words and ideas. Lincoln's eloquent articulation of the nation's ideals continues to inspire and challenge us today. The phrase "four score and seven years," while initially a stylistic choice, has become a symbol of the nation's ongoing struggle to live up to its founding principles.

The legacy of the Gettysburg Address, and indeed of Lincoln himself, is one of continuous engagement. His words prompt us to examine our own society, to reflect on the meaning of equality, and to consider our own role in building a more just and equitable future. The questions he raised about the nation's soul continue to resonate, urging us to grapple with the same challenges that confronted him and his generation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Why did Lincoln use the term "score" instead of "twenty"? Lincoln's use of "score" was a deliberate stylistic choice. It added a sense of historical weight and gravitas to his speech, invoking a more archaic and formal tone. It also provided a subtle biblical allusion, linking the American experiment to a sense of divine purpose.

• What is the significance of the number 87? Eighty-seven years represented the time elapsed since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This precise timeframe allowed Lincoln to connect the present (1863) with the past, emphasizing the ongoing struggle to realize the ideals of the nation's founding.

• Why is the Gettysburg Address so important? The Gettysburg Address is considered one of the most important speeches in American history. In just a few short minutes, Lincoln articulated the profound meaning of the Civil War and the nation's ongoing commitment to the ideals of liberty and equality. Its concise yet powerful language continues to inspire and challenge us today.

• How does the Gettysburg Address relate to the Civil War? The Gettysburg Address was delivered during the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, following the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg. Lincoln used the speech to frame the war within the context of the nation's founding principles, emphasizing the need to preserve the Union and reaffirm the ideals of liberty and equality.

• What is the lasting impact of Lincoln's phrase? "Four score and seven years ago" has transcended its original context and become a potent symbol of American history and the enduring struggle for equality and justice. It serves as a reminder of the nation's past, its ongoing challenges, and its continuing quest to live up to its ideals.

Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy

"Four score and seven years ago" is more than just a historical marker; it's a powerful symbol of time, progress, and the enduring struggle to realize the promise of a nation conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Lincoln's masterful use of language in the Gettysburg Address, including his calculated use of this archaic phrase, ensures that his message continues to resonate with audiences across generations. Understanding the historical context and the rhetorical power of "four score and seven years" enhances our appreciation of this iconic speech and its lasting legacy. The phrase serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing conversation surrounding American ideals, reminding us that the journey towards a more perfect union is a continuous process, demanding constant vigilance, dedication, and a renewed commitment to the principles of equality and justice for all.