Why is the "Gettysburg Address" often considered a defining moment in American history?

The "Gettysburg Address" is often regarded as a defining moment in American history because it was a powerful call for reconciliation and unity during a time of significant division caused by the Civil War. Delivered by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, the speech emphasized the necessity of healing the nation and reaffirmed the principles of liberty and equality. By invoking the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and recognizing the sacrifices made by soldiers at the Battle of Gettysburg, Lincoln sought to remind Americans of the importance of coming together to honor those sacrifices and to ensure that the nation would endure as a unified entity. This message of unity has resonated through time, making the address a pivotal moment in American discourse around democracy and national identity.