Lincoln

Question 6 • RS AZ-US History A

Which of the following most clearly contrasts Abraham Lincoln’s position on slavery with that of Stephen Douglas?

Answer

Lincoln believed each state should decide the matter for itself, while Douglas believed slavery should spread no further.

Lincoln believed slavery should be permitted throughout the country, while Douglas believed slavery should spread no further.

Lincoln believed slavery should be abolished, while Douglas believed slavery should be permitted throughout the country.

Lincoln believed slavery should spread no further, while Douglas believed each state should decide the matter for itself.

Explanation

Lincoln opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories, though he did not call for its immediate abolition where it already existed. Douglas supported popular sovereignty: settlers in each territory should decide whether to permit slavery. Therefore, the clearest contrast is that Lincoln wanted slavery to spread no further, while Douglas wanted local voters to decide.

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