Stephen Douglas

Stephen Douglas was a U.S. senator known for the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which allowed new territories to decide on slavery by popular vote. This act led to increased tensions between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions, contributing to the onset of the Civil War. Douglas's debates with Abraham Lincoln in 1858 highlighted the national divide over slavery and showcased his belief in popular sovereignty. Today, his legacy inspires discussions on states' rights and the balance between federal and local governance. For example, debates over state versus federal control in modern issues like education and healthcare can be traced back to the principles Douglas championed.