How Did Stephen Douglass Support The Freedom Doctrine

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Competing with Stephen Douglas, he was in the election to become the Senator of Illinois. This state election took place in 1858. He debated with Douglas face to face. There were seven debates held in Illinois. Stephen Douglas also supported the Freedom Doctrine. This stated that Supreme Court’s decisions were not as important as the citizens’ decisions. the audience gathered together to hear the two debate. They actively participated with cheering and asking questions to the candidates. People gathered to hear him debate with Douglas. He was for popular sovereignty. This principle allowed people to prohibit or permit slavery on their land. Their debates discussed important issues like popular sovereignty, slavery, and legal status