One of Abraham Lincoln’s most important speeches was the one he gave at the Cooper Union in New York City on February 27th, 1860. The resounding success of this speech forged Lincoln into a nationally known and popular political figure, paving the way for his attempt to capture the Republican nomination and his ultimate victory in the Presidential election.

Interestingly, though, the speech was originally not to be held at the Cooper Union, nor even in New York City, but rather across the East River in Brooklyn (then a separate city), at the Plymouth Church, headed by the famous abolitionist minister, Henry Ward Beecher. The change in venue occurred several weeks before the speech, but no-one bothered to inform poor Mr. Lincoln until he arrived in New York after his grueling four-day, 1,200-mile railroad trip, just two days before he was to give his remarks! Lincoln was forced to hurriedly amend the speech he had spent months researching and writing in order to appeal to a more political audience, rather than a church congregation. The speech was aimed at dispelling the notion that the Republican Party was a radical, abolitionist party that sought to disrupt the Union. Instead, Lincoln argued that the Republican Party’s position was consistent with the Founders’ vision of a Union that was dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. By skillfully weaving together historical references and legal arguments, Lincoln demonstrated his keen intellect and persuasive ability, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in American politics.  Despite this, his speech was hailed as a great triumph, with the New York Tribune even remarking that “No man ever made such an impression on his first appeal to a New-York audience.” 

Historians generally regard Lincoln’s Cooper Union Speech as one of his most important speeches, not only for its role in his political career but also for its impact on the national discourse on slavery. Many historians have praised the speech for its clear and concise argumentation, its use of historical references and legal reasoning, and its ability to dispel misconceptions about the Republican Party’s stance on slavery. Others have noted the speech’s importance in solidifying Lincoln’s national reputation and helping to secure his nomination for the presidency later that year. Overall, the Cooper Union Speech is considered a significant moment in American political history and a testament to Lincoln’s oratorical skills and strategic thinking.