Contrast the views of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas as expressed in the Illinois debates of 1858 concerning slavery, abolitionism, and racial equality. Discuss the political impact of these debates
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: Lincoln charged Douglas with being part of a Democratic conspiracy to extend slavery, an institution Lincoln wished to set on a "course of ultimate extinction" by preventing its expansion to new territories. Although Lincoln did not believe in racial equality, he advocated respect and protection of "natural rights" for blacks. Douglas adopted a more racist tone and indifferent attitude toward slavery, but insisted it could not exist in a territory without favorable local legislation. Douglas won the 1858 Senate race in Illinois, but lost southern support for the presidency in 1860.
You might also like to view...
What was the name of the heretical group that spread into Western Europe from the Balkans and became the target of a crusade to force them out of France?
A) the Cathars B) the Cistercians C) the Benedictines D) the Dominicans E) the Waldensians
What was the main job of the propaganda minister under Hitler?
A) the control of the media in support of the Nazi ideals B) the demonization of foreign influences C) the demonization of worldwide Jewry D) communicating the social realism of the Depression E) the promotion of industry
Which of the following is not a reason why colonists hesitated to declare independence in 1775?
a. How to attract foreign support was an unresolved issue. b. Many could not see themselves as traitors, which is what a declaration of independence would mean. c. How would Americans organize themselves since nations at the time had some form of monarchy. d. Breaking political ties with England meant turning their back on their heritage. e. Once unleashed, the fury of ordinary colonists could turn against the well to do and the rebellion could slide into anarchy.
Initially, the Union's strategy was to __________.
A. overwhelm the South with its better-trained army B. fight a limited war by strangling the South with a blockade C. select certain targets and attack with small guerrilla forces D. lure the South into invading the North