1. Reaffirming the Ideals of the Declaration of Independence: Lincoln emphasizes the enduring principles of liberty, equality and the pursuit of happiness, which were enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. He reminds his audience that the purpose of the war was to preserve these principles and ensure that the nation remains true to its founding ideals.
2.Honoring the Sacrifices of Soldiers: The Gettysburg Address was delivered at the dedication of the Soldier National cemetery, where thousands of Union soldiers had been buried following the bloody battle of Gettysburg. Lincoln uses the address to pay tribute to their sacrifice and to remind the nation that the war was fought to protect the ideals that these soldiers gave their lives for.
3. Reuniting the Nation: Lincoln's address also appealed for healing and reconciliation between the North and the South, which were engaged in a bitter civil conflict. He highlights the importance of coming together as a nation to ensure that the sacrifices of the soldiers were not in vain.
4. Preserving the Union: The Civil War was primarily about the preservation of the United States as a single, indivisible nation. Lincoln sought to strengthen the bonds of the Union and to emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong and unified country.
5.Promoting Equality: Lincoln's speech also hints at the broader struggle for equality. While he does not explicitly address the issue of slavery in this speech, the idea of liberty for all and devotion to the cause of the people echoes the ideals of the anti-slavery movement.
6. Rededicating the Nation to Its Ideals: The Gettysburg Address served as a call for all citizens to rededicate themselves to the ideals of freedom, democracy and equality. Lincoln's words were meant to inspire the nation to embrace these ideals and build a better future for all Americans.
While Lincoln does not explicitly state the specific purpose of the Civil War in the Gettysburg Address, the overarching message of the speech is one of unity, healing and recommitment to the fundamental principles upon which the nation was founded.