Why did Lincoln run for president? Abraham Lincoln ran for president of the United States for several reasons, primarily related to the political and social issues of his time:

Opposition to the Spread of Slavery:

Lincoln was deeply opposed to the spread of slavery into the western territories of the United States. He believed that the institution of slavery was morally wrong and that it should not be allowed to expand into new territories or states. This was a central issue in the lead-up to the Civil War.

Preservation of the Union:

As the United States was facing increasing sectional tensions over issues like slavery, Lincoln believed that it was crucial to preserve the Union. He saw secession as a threat to the unity of the nation and believed that the federal government had a duty to prevent it.

Political Ambition:

Lincoln had a long-standing political career and aspirations. He had served as a member of the Illinois State Legislature, a U.S. Congressman, and had run unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 1858 against Stephen A. Douglas. Running for president was a logical next step in his political career.

Concern for the Future of Democracy:

Lincoln was concerned about the fate of American democracy and the idea that a house divided against itself could not stand. He felt that the growing divisions in the country needed to be addressed through the democratic process, and he sought to provide leadership during a tumultuous time.

Popular Support:

Lincoln had gained prominence as a result of the Lincoln-Douglas debates during his Senate campaign and had garnered a significant following, particularly among Northern Republicans. His platform resonated with many Americans who were opposed to the expansion of slavery.

In the 1860 presidential election, Abraham Lincoln ran as the Republican Party candidate and won. His election was a pivotal moment in American history, as it ultimately contributed to the secession of Southern states and the outbreak of the Civil War, which began in 1861. Throughout his presidency, Lincoln faced the monumental task of leading the country through the Civil War and ultimately issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared the freedom of enslaved people in Confederate-held territory, further solidifying his legacy as a champion of liberty and the Union.