How much is four score in 7 years?

How Much is Four Score in 7 Years?

The phrase "four score and seven years" is a famous opening sentence from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, delivered on November 19, 1863. But have you ever wondered what exactly "four score" means? In this article, we’ll dive into the history and meaning of the phrase, and explore what Lincoln meant when he spoke those iconic words.

What is a Score?

A score is a unit of measurement that originated in ancient times. It is equal to 20, and is often used to count large groups of people or objects. In modern times, the word "score" is mostly used in idiomatic expressions, such as "to score a goal" in sports or "to score a point" in a game.

The Meaning of "Four Score and Seven Years"

So, when Lincoln said "four score and seven years ago," he was referring to the time period between 1776 and 1863. But what did he mean by "four score"? As we discussed earlier, a score is equal to 20, so "four score" would be 80. Therefore, "four score and seven years" would be equivalent to 87 years.

The Significance of 87 Years

So, why did Lincoln choose to use the phrase "four score and seven years" to begin his speech? There are a few possible reasons. One theory is that Lincoln was emphasizing the significance of the year 1776, when the United States declared its independence from Great Britain. By using the phrase "four score and seven years," Lincoln was highlighting the fact that the United States had been a free nation for nearly a century before the Civil War.

Another theory is that Lincoln was using the phrase to underscore the idea that the principles of liberty and democracy, which were established in 1776, were still relevant and important in 1863. By mentioning the passage of time, Lincoln was emphasizing the importance of preserving these principles and ensuring that they continued to shape the future of the United States.

Comparison to Other Time Periods

To put the 87-year period into perspective, let’s compare it to other time periods:

• The ancient Egyptians built the Great Pyramid of Giza around 2580 BC, which is equivalent to approximately 4,543 years ago.
• The Roman Empire was at its peak around 2,000 years ago, which is equivalent to approximately 2,000 years ago.
• The first humans are believed to have lived around 2.8 million years ago, which is equivalent to approximately 2,783,000 years ago.

As you can see, the 87-year period mentioned in Lincoln’s speech is relatively short compared to these other time periods. However, it is still an important milestone in American history, and Lincoln’s use of the phrase "four score and seven years" helped to emphasize the significance of the occasion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the phrase "four score and seven years" is a powerful and evocative phrase that has become iconic in American history. By understanding the meaning of the phrase and the significance of the time period it references, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the historical context in which Lincoln delivered his speech. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted phrase, "four score and seven years" is a phrase that is sure to leave a lasting impression.