Stephen Douglas
A nominee for president but was defeated by Abraham Lincoln
Real World Example
Stephen Douglas was a U.S. Senator from Illinois known for creating the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which allowed new territories to decide if they would allow slavery. This act led to violent conflicts known as "Bleeding Kansas" and heightened tensions between the North and South, contributing to the Civil War. Douglas debated Abraham Lincoln in 1858, showcasing his belief in popular sovereignty, the idea that people in a territory should vote on slavery's legality. His actions matter today because they highlight the importance of debates and voting in shaping our nation's laws. His legacy inspires people to engage in civic duties, like voting, to influence important issues in their communities and beyond.
