He declared that the deaths of so many brave soldiers would not be in vain, that slavery would end, and the future of democracy would be assured, that "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth".[236]
Defying his prediction that "the world will little note, nor long remember what we say here", the Address became the most quoted speech in American history.[237]

Promoting General Grant
The Peacemakers, an 1868 painting by George P.A. Healy of events aboard the River Queen in March 1865 (clickable image—use cursor to identify)
General Ulysses Grant's victories at the Battle of Shiloh and in the Vicksburg campaign impressed Lincoln. Responding to criticism of Grant after Shiloh, Lincoln had said, "I can't spare this man. He fights."[238] With Grant in command, Lincoln felt the Union Army could advance in multiple theaters, while also including black troops. Meade's failure to capture Lee's army after Gettysburg and the continued passivity of the Army of the Potomac persuaded Lincoln to promote Grant to supreme commander. Grant then assumed command of Meade's army.[239]
Lincoln was concerned that Grant might be considering a presidential candidacy in 1864. 