Lincoln was the greatest President in American history, because in a time of revolution he comprehended the spirit of American institutions.
—Lyman Abbott
He was one of the few great rulers whose wisdom increased with his power, and whose spirit grew gentler and tenderer as his triumphs were multiplied.
—James A. Garfield
With all his disappointments from failures on the part of those to whom he had trusted command, and treachery on the part of those who had gained his confidence but to betray it, I never heard him utter a complaint, nor cast a censure for bad conduct or bad faith. It was his nature to find excuses for his adversaries. In his death the nation lost its greatest hero.
—U. S. Grant
The best way to estimate the value of Lincoln is to think what the condition of America would be today if he had never lived—never been President.
—Walt Whitman
He had a face and manner which disarmed suspicion, which inspired confidence, which confirmed good will.