Lincoln-Douglas Debates, Part 1

I. The U.S. Senate Nomination

A. Electoral process for the Senate before the 17th Amendment

1. Growing disenchantment with Douglas

2. Illinois Republican Convention (1858)

B. The "House Divided" Speech

C. Stalking Douglas



II. The Debates

A. The Format

1. Locations--Ottawa, Freeport, Jonesboro, Charleston, Galesburg, Quincy, and Alton. All locations except Freeport and Jonesboro were located in the central portion of the state.

2. Debate format--alternated opening at each location. Opening statement lasting one half hour, a rejoinder by the opponent lasting 1 1/2 hours, and a rebuttal lasting 1 hour.

B. Ottawa Debate--August 21, 1858

1. Ottawa

2. Douglas opening

3. Lincoln rejoinder

4. Douglas rebuttal

C. Freeport Debate--August 27, 1858

1. Freeport

2. Lincoln opening

3. Douglas rejoinder

4. Lincoln rebuttal

D. Jonesboro Debate--September 15, 1858

1. Jonesboro

2. Douglas opening

3. Lincoln rejoinder

4. Douglas rebuttal