Theodore Parker played a large role in changing the mentality of not only his parishioners but also the entire nation. One way in which Parker was able to achieve change is through the profound influence that he had on Abraham Lincoln. Parker's ideas reached Lincoln through the medium of William Herndon, Lincoln's law partner. Articles and sermons made by Parker were sent out to Springfield, Illinois while Lincoln was practicing law after he lost his …showed first 75 words of 3550 total…

…showed last 75 words of 3550 total…more modern times as one of Martin Luther King Jr.'s favorite lines was, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice." This was a direct quote of Parker's. Parker's vehement stance against slavery helped to mold the minds of many influential men. Though perhaps never receiving the credit that he deserved, Parker may have been the most influential man in pushing the country away from compromise and into conflict.