Question

What is lincoln referring to when he says, "of the people, by the people, for the people"?

Answer 1

Hey Mate..!
Here's Your Answer

This is, to some extent, a reference to the Declaration of Independence. 
Lincoln is referring to the Government.
(Declaration of Independence in the Gettysburg address)


At the end of the address, Lincoln says that the men who have died at Gettysburg have died to ensure that 
government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.


Hope This Helps..!

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Answer 2

lincoln refers to the Democratic and republic government.