A. The debates brought Lincoln into the national spotlight. Before the start of the Civil War, Lincoln was relatively unknown and was looking to obtain the position of senator of Illinois against the incumbent Douglas in 1858. The main topic of discussion during debate was that of slavery and both sides had varying views, with Lincoln arguing against the spread of slavery. Though Lincoln lost the election, he was put in the national spotlight and became a favorite to win the presidency in the upcoming 1860 election which he won against Douglas.