“I will make a prophecy that may now sound peculiar. In fifty years Lincoln's name will be inscribed close to Washington's on this Republic's roll of honor.” Carl Schurz

Hello, I am Carl Schurz, a statesman, orator, and advocate for justice and democracy. Today, I want to share a reflection rooted in something I once said: “I will make a prophecy that may now sound peculiar. In fifty years Lincoln's name will be inscribed close to Washington's on this Republic's roll of honor.” At the time, many underestimated Lincoln’s legacy. He was criticized and even vilified by his contemporaries, but I saw in him the enduring qualities of leadership: moral courage, an unwavering commitment to justice, and a profound understanding of the principles that define a nation. History vindicated him, placing his name alongside Washington's as one of our greatest leaders. Now, I ask you to consider this moment in history. How will it be remembered? What will future generations say about the challenges we faced and the choices we made? Will they see us as defenders of democracy, justice, and truth—or as bystanders who allowed these values to erode?