What idea did the Gettysburg Address express?

The Gettysburg Address, delivered by President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, is a profound statement on the values that underpin the United States, particularly emphasizing the principles of equality and democracy. In the Address, Lincoln underscores the idea that the nation was founded on the belief that all men are created equal, a fundamental tenet of democracy. He further articulates that the sacrifices made by those who fought in the Civil War were in pursuit of a "new birth of freedom" that would ensure a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

This powerful message resonates with the historical context of the Civil War, which was fundamentally about the preservation of the Union and the fight against slavery, reflecting a commitment to human rights and equality. The Address serves not only to honor those who died at Gettysburg but also to inspire continued commitment to the democratic ideals of the nation.

Other ideas presented in the choices may touch upon relevant themes, but they do not capture the heart of Lincoln's message as accurately. Economic prosperity, military strength, and trade agreements, while important aspects of a nation's wellbeing, fall outside the core focus of Lincoln’s remarks at Gettysburg, which center around equality and the democratic ideals that should guide the nation.