Interpret the Evidence
According to Abraham Lincoln, what are the benefits of a free-labor system over a system of slavery (Document 12.12)? How does Lincoln use his own life story as evidence?
How did the Republican Party platform of 1856 address the issue of Kansas statehood (Document 12.13)? Why do you think it also included resolutions regarding internal improvements?
What are Charles Sumner’s criticisms of Andrew Butler and of the institution of slavery (Document 12.14)? How does he defend himself from claims that he is the fanatical head of a sectional party?
According to William H. Seward, what are the differences between slave societies and free-labor societies (Document 12.15)? Why did past compromises between the free states and slave states fail? How might a Southerner have criticized Seward’s portrayal of a free-labor society?
What are Lincoln’s arguments regarding the future of slavery and the fugitive slave law (Document 12.16)? Does he call for abolition? How does Stephen Douglas attempt to characterize Lincoln? Why does he seek to tie Lincoln to Frederick Douglass and issues of racial equality?
Put It in Context
In what ways do these prominent Republicans call for an end to slavery without necessarily calling for black equality? How have they expanded the Free Soil Party platform to appeal to a wider constituency?