Describe Abraham Lincoln’s stance on slavery during his presidential campaign during 1860.
During his presidential campaign in 1860, Abraham Lincoln's stance on slavery was that he opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories. He believed it was a moral wrong and saw slavery as an issue that threatened the unity of the nation. Lincoln argued for the preservation of the Union and the gradual end of slavery, with the eventual goal of complete abolition.
Lincoln emphasized that slavery should not be extended to the territories in the West, which had been a contentious issue between the North and the South. He believed that this extension would only serve to widen the divide between the regions and lead to further conflicts.
In his campaign speeches and debates, Lincoln highlighted the importance of preserving the principles upon which the United States was founded, particularly the idea that all men are created equal. He argued that the Founding Fathers intended for slavery to eventually end, and he sought to uphold their vision by limiting its expansion.
However, it is important to note that Lincoln's primary goal during his presidential campaign was to maintain the Union, rather than push for immediate abolition. He was cautious not to alienate voters in the border states that still permitted slavery.
Overall, Lincoln's stance on slavery during his 1860 presidential campaign was rooted in his belief in the immorality of slavery and the necessity of preventing its spread while striving towards its gradual elimination.