Virtual Workshop: The Lincoln-Douglas Debates of 1858

Tuesdays, February 17 – March 3  |  6pm – 8pm  |  Presented by: Mr. Steve Rogstad  |  $48 ($60 for non-members)  |  Register Here

Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas were political adversaries for nearly 30 years in Illinois and argued the issue of American slavery in the crucible of public debate. The 1858 senatorial Lincoln-Douglas debates have been held up as the quintessential example of American public debate style. This course will closely examine the political context for the debates, identify the various Illinois voters, discuss the topics both candidates introduced into the debates, and study the rhetorical ploys used by both Lincoln and Douglas to further their political positions. Many maintain that the ideas expressed by Abraham Lincoln before and during the debates foreshadowed the Civil War and threatened American social order. Learn what is the myth of the seven debates, and how they differ from history.

Participants will be sent a link the day-of to access this live virtual workshop at their home computers.