Abraham Lincoln and the Anti-Slavery Movement

Join Assistant Professor of History Justin Vipperman from the College of Southern Idaho for a presentation on the anti-slavery views of Abraham Lincoln. This insightful presentation explores the complex, non-linear journey toward the abolition of slavery in the United States, highlighting the strategic constitutional approaches employed by antislavery advocates. Professor Vipperman will delve into how figures like Abraham Lincoln skillfully interpreted and leveraged constitutional provisions—such as federal authority over territories and the regulation of the interstate slave trade—to curb and eventually abolish slavery. The presentation will emphasize the argument that while the Constitution did not explicitly condemn slavery, it provided a framework that antislavery politicians used to their advantage. By reframing the nation’s founding principles, these leaders navigated formidable legal and political challenges, demonstrating that abolition was not just a moral endeavor but a deliberate, strategic, and contested process.

November 23 beginning at 1pm at the Idaho State Archives.

This event is free and open to the public. Lincoln scholar David Leroy will lead a guided tour of the permanent exhibit, “Abraham Lincoln: His Legacy in Idaho,” following the presentation. Additionally, never before seen Lincoln artifacts will be on display during the event. Light refreshments will be provided.

Please RSVP if you plan on attending.