by Digital Press on 02/05/08, 4:20 pm
"One hundred and fifty years ago, Americans who had gathered to protest the
expansion of slavery gave birth to a political Party that would save the Union – the
Republican Party.
In 1860, Abraham Lincoln of Illinois carried the Republican banner in the
Presidential election and was elected the Party’s first President. He became our nation’s
greatest leader … and one of our Party’s greatest heroes.
Every day, we strive to fulfill Lincoln’s vision: a country united and free, in
which all people are guaranteed equal rights and the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
His legacy goes beyond the borders of America. It can be seen in free governments all
over the world." - Republican platform 2004