The IPA Principal's Principles Network
EXCERPT: LINCOLN, LEADERSHIP AND GETTYSBURG - Defining Moments of Greatness
Fourscore and seven years ago...
Gentle rhythms and compelling cadences marked the words of the Gettysburg Address, molding beauty with intentionality and thoughtful expression. Many orators of Lincoln's day, including politicians whom he influenced and those who impacted him, employed flowery, lofty expressions in their efforts to impress and sway their listeners. In fact, Lincoln himself often utilized similar techniques in many of his early political speeches.
Lincoln did it simpler at Gettysburg. Somehow in this short address, the President expressed his central and important themes quicker and more effectively. Maybe it was his humble upbringing, focused reading and studying, and impeccable logic that created unique mixtures of commonality and brilliance in this communication. Whatever the case, Lincoln's remarkable wisdom crafted what some would term a communication art form not surpassed since.
Was it effective? Yes. People remembered and acted upon what they heard, as future generations continue to do today.
Look again at that opening. Lincoln could have easily said "eighty-seven years ago," but the effect he created with "fourscore and seven" was elevating and inspirational. He set his content apart with phrases designed to make his audience contemplate their history.
Combining eloquent language with down to earth expression, he helped his audience recognize that, while he was a learned man, he had come from them. He could speak to them because he was one of them. The lesson is this: leaders who communicate effectively identify with their audience...
Leaders set frameworks of understanding into which followers position themselves. Effective leaders help their followers frame choices against revealed and lasting truth.
Leaders don't change history — they learn from it. Then they teach the lessons of history to those who follow. Leaders possessing long-term views glean knowledge and wisdom from events and people who have lived before, educating from their experiences.
Lincoln, Leadership and Gettysburg" - Glen Aubrey's newest book - highlights Lincoln's leadership as evidenced in what many believe is his greatest oration, the Gettysburg Address. These immortal lines speak volumes to those who desire to learn from Lincoln and live in freedom. Its message is timely; its truths timeless. Obtain a pre-release copy of this important work: http://www.ctrg.com/llag/mikey/
Gentle rhythms and compelling cadences marked the words of the Gettysburg Address, molding beauty with intentionality and thoughtful expression. Many orators of Lincoln's day, including politicians whom he influenced and those who impacted him, employed flowery, lofty expressions in their efforts to impress and sway their listeners. In fact, Lincoln himself often utilized similar techniques in many of his early political speeches.
Lincoln did it simpler at Gettysburg. Somehow in this short address, the President expressed his central and important themes quicker and more effectively. Maybe it was his humble upbringing, focused reading and studying, and impeccable logic that created unique mixtures of commonality and brilliance in this communication. Whatever the case, Lincoln's remarkable wisdom crafted what some would term a communication art form not surpassed since.
Was it effective? Yes. People remembered and acted upon what they heard, as future generations continue to do today.
Look again at that opening. Lincoln could have easily said "eighty-seven years ago," but the effect he created with "fourscore and seven" was elevating and inspirational. He set his content apart with phrases designed to make his audience contemplate their history.
Combining eloquent language with down to earth expression, he helped his audience recognize that, while he was a learned man, he had come from them. He could speak to them because he was one of them. The lesson is this: leaders who communicate effectively identify with their audience...
Leaders set frameworks of understanding into which followers position themselves. Effective leaders help their followers frame choices against revealed and lasting truth.
Leaders don't change history — they learn from it. Then they teach the lessons of history to those who follow. Leaders possessing long-term views glean knowledge and wisdom from events and people who have lived before, educating from their experiences.
Lincoln, Leadership and Gettysburg" - Glen Aubrey's newest book - highlights Lincoln's leadership as evidenced in what many believe is his greatest oration, the Gettysburg Address. These immortal lines speak volumes to those who desire to learn from Lincoln and live in freedom. Its message is timely; its truths timeless. Obtain a pre-release copy of this important work: http://www.ctrg.com/llag/mikey/
Tags: Gettysburg, Leadership, Lincoln
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