Question

question 9 of 10

which candidate in the 1860 presidential election believed that states should get to choose whether to allow slavery and the government should have a limited role in the economy?

a. john breckinridge
b. abraham lincoln
c. stephen douglas
d. john bell

Explanation:

Analyze the candidate platforms on slavery

The question asks about a candidate in the 1860 presidential election who believed states should choose whether to allow slavery. This concept is known as popular sovereignty.

Evaluate Stephen Douglas

Stephen Douglas, representing the Northern Democrats, was the leading champion of popular sovereignty. He argued that local settlers should decide the status of slavery in their territories.

Evaluate other candidates

Abraham Lincoln (Republican) opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories. John Breckinridge (Southern Democrat) wanted federal protection for slavery in all territories. John Bell (Constitutional Union) sought to avoid the issue entirely to preserve the Union.

Examine economic views

Douglas and the Democratic platform generally favored a limited role for the federal government in the economy, contrasting with the Republican platform of protective tariffs and federally funded internal improvements.

Answer:

• (A) John Breckinridge
• (B) Abraham Lincoln
• (C) Stephen Douglas (Correct answer)
• (D) John Bell