Certain topics of these debates were slavery, how to deal with slavery, and where slavery should be allowed. Although Lincoln lost the election to Douglas, he was known throughout the country because of the debates. The Lincoln and Douglas debates were important because back then senators were elected by state legislature Lincoln and Douglas were trying their best for their parties to win in the Illinois general assembly . He gained a national reputation as a man of clear thinking who could argue with force and persuasion.
Anticipating Montesquieu, whom Locke influenced, describes the separation of legislative and executive power. The authority of the State is based on the principles of popular sovereignty and legality. Power is not absolute but must respect human rights.
