The Life of Stephen A. Douglas

"The Life of Stephen A. Douglas" by William Gardner is a biography that chronicles the life and times of Stephen A. Douglas, a significant politician in the years before the Civil War. The author examines Douglas's life, from his early days to his rise in the political world, and the problems surrounding his views on important topics such as slavery and the country's growth. By providing a look into Douglas's world, the author presents a portrait of the political climate on the path to war. The book starts with a preface to help readers understand Douglas's life, acknowledging the difficulties of political decisions and the need to avoid being influenced by today's opinions. From his simple beginnings in Vermont to his travels westward, the story shows his determination to succeed, which led to his success as a speaker and politician. The beginning of the book sets up an examination of his political ideas as he makes his way through the difficult path of political challenges leading up to the Civil War.