|
In 1858, when Lincoln was nominated by the Republicans to run against Douglas for the Senate, he challenged Douglas to a series of joint debates. Douglas accepted much against his will, for, as he said. ""Should I lose, Lincoln will gain everything, while I would lose everything."" Seven debates took place between August 21 and October 15, 1858. Nothing ever approached this battle of the Gaints. Douglas was met by brass bands and thirty-two gun salutes, and escorted in the best equipage to be had, while Lincoln would be carried through the streets on a hay rack drawn by farm horses. Men, women and children came in processions from great distances. Fakirs shouting, jugglers performing and beggars plying their trades, while brass bands pounded and tooted national airs, made it a scene of hubbub and confusion. At these monster meetings Lincoln flayed Douglas as no man ever did an opponent, while Douglas, always dodging and misrepresenting the issue, contended in vain. The fifth debate was held at Galesburg, Ill., October 7, 1858, where the students of Knox College hung out a huge banner bearing the words: ""Knox College for Lincoln."" Lincoln received the greatest number of votes, but the Legislative districts as apportioned, gave Douglas the majority on joint ballot of the Legislature. The portraits of Lincoln and Douglas were taken about the time of the famous debate |
