Why does Lincoln say he is obligated to hold this position According to Lincoln third debate: Jonesboro,Illinois on September 15, 1858?
In the Lincoln-Jonesboro debate on September 15, 1858, Lincoln stated that he felt obligated to hold his position against allowing the expansion of slavery into new territories because he believed it was a moral issue. He argued that the principle of equality as stated in the Declaration of Independence should be upheld, and that allowing the expansion of slavery would contradict that principle. Lincoln emphasized that he did not seek to interfere with slavery where it already existed, as it was protected by the Constitution in those states. However, he saw it as his moral responsibility to prevent its spread into new territories.
According to Lincoln's remarks during the third debate in Jonesboro, Illinois on September 15, 1858, he states that he is obligated to hold his position due to his commitment to the principles of the Republican Party. Lincoln believes in the fundamental idea that all individuals are entitled to certain unalienable rights, including the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He argues that his duty as a politician is to stand up for these principles and advocate for their implementation in society. Lincoln feels obliged to hold his position because he believes in fighting against the expansion of slavery and preserving the Union. He articulates his deep sense of duty and commitment to these principles as the driving force behind his stance on the issues of the day.
To understand why Abraham Lincoln says he is obligated to hold a particular position, we need to explore the context of the third debate between Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in Jonesboro, Illinois on September 15, 1858.
In this debate, Lincoln is referring to the issue of slavery, which was a highly contentious topic leading up to the American Civil War. Lincoln was opposed to the expansion of slavery into new territories, while Douglas believed in the concept of popular sovereignty, which allowed the residents of a territory to decide whether to allow slavery or not.
During the debate, Lincoln argues that the founders of the United States, including the framers of the Constitution, had a clear intent to limit the spread of slavery. He emphasizes that both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were founded on the principle of equality and the belief that all men are created equal. Lincoln believes that holding this position against the expansion of slavery aligns with the principles on which the nation was founded.
Furthermore, Lincoln states that he is obligated to hold this position because it is necessary to preserve the Union and prevent the further division of the country. He argues that allowing the spread of slavery into new territories would ultimately lead to the entire nation being divided between free and slave states, and this division would threaten the unity and stability of the United States.
In summary, Lincoln says he is obligated to hold his anti-expansion of slavery position because it aligns with the principles of equality and the original intent of the Founding Fathers. He also believes that it is necessary to preserve the Union and prevent further division within the country.