What was one of the primary arguments laid out by Lincoln against slavery?

One of the primary arguments laid out by Abraham Lincoln against slavery centers on the belief that slavery is a moral wrong. Lincoln frequently emphasized the inhumanity and moral implications of slavery in his speeches and writings. He regarded human bondage as fundamentally unjust and an affront to human dignity. This moral stance was a critical component of his political platform and resonated deeply with many who opposed slavery on ethical grounds.

Lincoln’s view was influenced by his belief in the Declaration of Independence and the principle that all men are created equal. This foundational idea challenged the legitimacy of slavery outright by asserting that it contradicted the nation's core democratic values. By framing slavery as a moral failing rather than merely a political or economic issue, Lincoln aimed to instigate a broader abolitionist sentiment among Americans, encouraging them to recognize the ethical responsibility of ending the institution of slavery.