Introduction to Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is well-known for his political prowess, leadership during the Civil War, and his famous speeches. However, a lesser-known aspect of Lincoln's legacy is his writing and debates that played a crucial role in shaping his political career and cementing his place in American history. This article delves into the writings and speeches of Lincoln, their significance, and how they influenced his political journey.

Lincoln's Writing and Debates

Some of the writing and debates of Abraham Lincoln are lesser-known to the general public. For instance, in 1846, he wrote a document titled “A Remarkable Case of Arrest for Murder” but there are no existing copies of the book today. He was a prolific writer and enjoyed creating scrapbooks, showcasing his deep interest in penning various documents throughout his life.

The Lincoln-Douglas Debates

The Lincoln-Douglas Debates, a series of seven debates, took place between August and October 1858, spanning the state of Illinois. These debates were held in key locations such as Freeport, Quincy, and Alton, and drew massive crowds. The attendance figures are impressive: 12,000 to 18,000 people in Galesburg, 15,000 in Freeport, 12,000 in Quincy, and 5,000 to 10,000 in Alton. In Freeport, more than 16,000 people were reported to have attended.

These debates were significant not only because they addressed critical issues of the time such as slavery and states' rights, but also because they elevated Abe Lincoln to national prominence. The debates were well-documented by newspapers, and we can trace the historical attendance and impact of these events today.

Lincoln edited the transcripts of these debates and had them published in a book that was well-received by the public. This publication helped Lincoln secure the Republican Party nomination for president at the 1860 Republican National Convention in Chicago. This event marked a significant turning point in his political career, firmly establishing him as a national figure.

Lincoln's Most Famous Speech and Religious Influences

One of Lincoln's most famous speeches was the Gettysburg Address, which is often considered one of the most important speeches in American history. However, this speech was not without controversy. According to some scholars, the original speech did not include the phrase "under God." This addition was made later to make the speech more palatable to Christian America.

Lincoln was an atheist. His famous quote, "Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?" taken from Remarkable Case of Arrest for Murder, demonstrates his logical and rational thought processes, which is characteristic of an atheist. His interpretation of history and the founding of the country shows a deep skepticism towards the religious undertones often attributed to figures like Thomas Jefferson.

Lincoln cited Thomas Jefferson's religious work, not his political achievements, to highlight the contradictions within the ideology of the Founding Fathers. Jefferson's Declaration of Independence, for instance, was crafted with religious overtones that were often seen as contentious. Lincoln, with his rational approach, acknowledged these discrepancies. He believed that the notion of equality was more of a philosophical concept than a religious one, as evident in his consideration of the Somerset vs Stewart case, which questioned the religious and legal justifications for slavery.

Conclusion and Significance

The writings and debates of Abraham Lincoln offer insights into his political philosophy, personal beliefs, and the historical context of the era. From his unique approach to reasoning in his writing to the significant impact of the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, Lincoln's legacy is multifaceted and rich in historical significance. Understanding these aspects helps us appreciate the complexity of Lincoln's thought process and the enduring impact of his work on American history.

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