What made Abraham Lincoln an attractive candidate for the Republican Nomination?

Abraham Lincoln was a relatively unknown figure outside of Illinois before he was selected as the Republican candidate for president in 1860. However, there were several key factors that contributed to his rise to prominence within the Republican Party and his eventual election as the 16th President of the United States.

One important factor was Lincoln's growing reputation as an eloquent and persuasive speaker on the national stage. His debates with Stephen Douglas, in particular, had earned him widespread recognition as a skilled debater and an opponent of slavery. His ability to articulate his positions on complex issues in a clear and compelling manner made him stand out from other politicians of his time.

Another important factor was Lincoln's humble background and self-made status as a successful lawyer and politician from Illinois. He had grown up in a log cabin on the frontier and had worked hard to educate himself and establish himself as a respected member of his community. This self-reliant and hard-working persona made him an appealing choice for the Republican Party, which was founded on the principles of free labor and self-reliance.

In addition to his personal qualities, Lincoln's commitment to preserving the Union was a key factor in his appeal to the Republican Party. As tensions over slavery grew in the United States, many Republicans saw Lincoln as a strong and principled leader who could help prevent the country from descending into civil war. His moderate stance on the issue of slavery also made him more acceptable to voters in the border states, who were crucial to the Republican Party's chances of winning the election.