1858   The first of seven highly publicized debates are held between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas during their campaign for an open seat in the United States Senate for the state of Illinois

1858   Stephen A. Douglas defeats Abraham Lincoln in an election for a United States Senate seat from the state of Illinois. The highly publicized election propels Abraham Lincoln to national prominence.

1860   Abraham Lincoln is elected as the 16th President of the United States and the first Republican Party President, defeating Democratic Party candidate, Stephen A. Douglas