Historians and participants discussed the historical context of the
Lincoln-Douglas debates and their significance, especially the second debate in
Freeport, Illinois. Senator Simon, who wrote a book about Lincoln’s
career as a state legislator, and Representative Manzullo also
participated. Telephone lines were also opened for viewer comments.

Mr. Schmelzle described the 1958 Lincoln-Douglas Debate Centennial.

Professor Wilkins outlined how the Constitutional Convention dealt
with the issues of slavery and the slave trade.