Chapter 109: The Republicans nominate Abraham Lincoln.

Lincoln arrives fresh from a speech at New York’s Cooper Union where he wins over skeptical easterners while arguing that the Founders intended for slavery to wither away over time. He is on his own ground at Chicago’s Wigwam center which his managers pack with chanting supporters. On Day 2, May 17, the 466 delegates pass a platform in 17 Articles including:

Article 8. “That the normal condition of all the territory of the United States is that of
freedom: That…it becomes our duty, …to maintain this provision of the Constitution
against all attempts to violate it; and we deny the authority of Congress, of a territorial
legislature, or of any individuals, to give legal existence to slavery in any territory of the
United States.”

Five candidates vie for the top spot, with Seward taking the initial lead until concerns arise about his “irrepressible conflict” speech almost guaranteeing war. Lincoln passes him on the third ballot before final adjustments provide the simple majority needed.

Votes for Republican Presidential Nomination