What is the main purpose of the first paragraph of this speech? (5 points)
(1) four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth upon this continent a new nation: conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
1. it clearly and directly states the counterclaim.
2. it introduces the topic and hooks the audience.
3. it gives the speaker's history for common ground.
4. it provides a transition between arguments.

The correct answer is number 2. It introduces the topic and hooks the audience.

The main purpose of the first paragraph of the speech It introduces the topic and hooks the audience.  

The Gettysburg address’ first paragraph, by Abraham Lincoln, introduces the topic and hooks the audience. The phrase that uses Lincoln is a biblical reference to “three score year and ten” which supposedly was the time humanity was supposed to live. Lincoln changed to “Four score and seven years ago…” to start its speech and catch people´s attention.

it provides a unique and personal perspective on a significant historical event.