Lincoln accepts Republican Senate nomination with House Divided speech (1858)

Abraham Lincoln accepted the Illinois Republican Party's nomination for U.S. Senator on June 16, 1858, at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield. He delivered the House Divided speech, asserting that the government could not permanently endure half slave and half free. The nomination was the convention's final business, with Lincoln's address closing the proceedings.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Lincoln joined the Republicans in 1856, attending the Bloomington Convention where the Illinois Republican Party was established. By 1858, many party members favored a former Whig for the Senate nomination. Lincoln's prior campaigning and support for Trumbull earned him favor, leading to his nomination at the first Illinois Republican convention held to agree upon a Senate candidate.

Speech Content. Lincoln delivered the House Divided speech, quoting Mark 3:25. He stated, "A house divided against itself cannot stand," believing the government could not permanently endure half slave and half free. The phrase had been used by Lincoln in 1843 and 1856, and was relevant to 1858 discussions regarding slavery in Kansas.

Convention Proceedings. Lincoln's nomination was the final item of business at the convention, which broke for dinner before meeting again at 8 pm. The evening session was devoted to speeches, with Lincoln as the only speaker. His address closed the convention, followed by resolutions of thanks to the city of Springfield.

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Sources

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