Right Makes Might - The Lincoln-Douglas Debates of 1858

The most famous debates in American history turned a little known Illinois lawyer into a presidential contender when Abraham Lincoln confronted slavery with the Declaration of Independence's idea that all men are created equal.
Also known as The Great Debates of 1858, the Lincoln-Douglas Debates put on display the two competing ideologies of the 19th century — majority rule versus equality for all. Through each three-hour debate, Lincoln argued against his opponent for an end to slavery, using the values espoused in the Declaration of Independence. As a one-term congressman with few political achievements, the debates thrust Lincoln into the national spotlight and gave him the opportunity to harness his newfound notoriety and launch his presidential campaign two years later. ‘Right Makes Might’ explores Lincoln’s journey during the debates, as well as their wider ramifications, which continue to affect American politics to this day.