Stephen Arnold Douglas
Senator from Illinois, Lincoln's political rival and proponent of popular sovereignty.
Core Belief
"Douglas believes in the principle of popular sovereignty, arguing that the people of each territory should have the right to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. He is less concerned with the moral implications of slavery than with maintaining the Union and avoiding sectional conflict."
Worldview
Douglas sees the world through a political lens, viewing issues in terms of their impact on his career and the success of his party. He is willing to compromise on some issues in order to achieve his goals, but is ultimately driven by a desire for power and recognition.
Personality
Douglas is depicted as an ambitious and skilled politician, adept at debate and appealing to popular sentiment. He is confident in his own abilities and can be haughty and condescending towards his opponents.
In Their Own Words
"I do not care whether slavery be voted up or voted down."
"A kind, amiable, and intelligent gentleman and a good citizen."
"That is a question for the courts to decide."
Discussions with Stephen Arnold Douglas
Other Characters from The Papers and Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Complete
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