Who was a prominent advocate for popular sovereignty during the 1860 election?

Stephen Douglas was a prominent advocate for popular sovereignty during the 1860 election. This concept allowed the settlers of a territory to decide for themselves whether or not to permit slavery within their borders. Douglas believed that this approach was a practical solution to the contentious issue of slavery and would help preserve the Union by giving local populations the power to make decisions about their own governance.

During the 1860 election, Douglas campaigned as part of the Northern Democratic Party, promoting popular sovereignty as a means to address the divisions over slavery, particularly in newly acquired territories. His stance was rooted in the idea that democracy involved allowing citizens to choose their political and social institutions, including those related to slavery. This position became increasingly significant as tensions over slavery escalated, leading to events such as the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, which Douglas championed.

In contrast, other figures like Henry Clay were more associated with earlier compromises, John C. Fremont represented a more radical anti-slavery platform, and Harriet Beecher Stowe was best known for her literary contributions, particularly "Uncle Tom's Cabin," rather than direct political advocacy during the election.