Lincoln and Douglas debated on slavery, statehood, equality, and popular sovereignty across 7 Illinois cities.
| Political | Slavery |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
2 min read
The Lincoln-Douglas Debates, a series of seven public debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in the USA, were pivotal in shaping the nation's discourse on slavery. The candidates debated fiercely on the expansion of slavery into new territories, with Lincoln advocating for its containment and Douglas promoting popular sovereignty. These debates attracted huge crowds and significant media coverage, showcasing the stark ideological divisions in the country leading up to the Civil War. Lincoln's eloquence and moral clarity during these debates elevated his national profile and set the stage for his future as a prominent figure in American politics. The legacy of the Lincoln-Douglas Debates continues to resonate in American history as a critical moment in the fight against slavery and the quest for national unity. #LincolnDouglasDebates #AbrahamLincoln #StephenDouglas #SlaveryDebate #AmericanHistory
Primary Reference: 13. The Sectional Crisis | THE AMERICAN YAWP

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