How Long is Four Score and Seven Years

Have you ever wondered about the time frame referred to in the famous opening line of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address? Four score and seven years ago… But just how long is a score, and what does it mean in terms of years? In this article, we will explore this intriguing historical phrase and provide you with the answers you seek.

What is the meaning of four score and seven years?

“Four score and seven years” is a poetic way of expressing 87 years. A score is a unit of measurement that equals 20. Therefore, four score is equal to 80, and adding seven years to that gives us a total of 87 years.

Why did Abraham Lincoln use this old-fashioned phrasing in his speech?

Lincoln chose to use this phrasing in his Gettysburg Address to add a sense of historical gravitas and to evoke the spirit of the founding fathers who signed the Declaration of Independence “four score and seven years ago” from the time of his speech. By using this phrasing, Lincoln aimed to remind the audience of the country’s origins and the dedication required to uphold the principles upon which the nation was founded.

Was it common to use the term score to refer to 20 years during Lincoln’s time?

Yes, it was relatively common during Lincoln’s time to use “score” to refer to a period of 20 years. This usage can be traced back to Old English and was employed throughout history in both spoken and written language. While the term has fallen out of common usage today, it was widely understood during the 19th century.

Is the use of four score and seven years exclusive to Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address?

No, this phrasing was not exclusive to Lincoln’s speech. It had been used in other contexts prior to the Gettysburg Address. For example, in the Bible, Psalm 90:10 states, “The days of our years are threescore years and ten,” using “threescore” to refer to 60 years. Shakespeare also employed this term in his play Macbeth, where the witches chant, “Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn and cauldron bubble. / Double, double toil and trouble; Sing two-and-twenty, and six-and-twenty / and five-and-twenty” – here, “score” is used to mean a set of twenty.

Does the phrase four score and seven years have any significance beyond its literal meaning?

Yes, beyond its literal meaning, “four score and seven years” has become an iconic and memorable phrase due to its association with Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. The speech, given during the American Civil War, emphasized the importance of preserving the Union and the sacrifice made by soldiers on both sides. The phrase serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by the nation and the need for continuous dedication to the principles of freedom and equality.

In conclusion, “four score and seven years” translates to 87 years and was used by Abraham Lincoln in his Gettysburg Address as a way to emphasize the historical significance and the commitment required to uphold the ideals of the United States. This phrasing has roots in Old English and has been used in various contexts throughout history. While it may not be commonly used today, it remains a memorable and powerful piece of language that continues to resonate with people worldwide.