Who did James Shields challenge to a duel?

James Shields challenged Abraham Lincoln to a duel due to a series of political disagreements and personal slights. The context of their conflict dates back to the 1850s, when Lincoln, then a member of the Illinois Legislature, publicly criticized Shields in an editorial. This prompted Shields to demand satisfaction through a duel, a common practice at the time for resolving such matters of honor.

The duel was set to take place in 1859, but it was ultimately averted at the last moment, thanks to the intervention of friends from both sides. This incident highlights the intense political rivalry and personal animosities that characterized the period, particularly in Illinois where both men were prominent figures. The challenge is particularly notable as it reflects Lincoln's complex character—a man who, despite his stature and moral beliefs, found himself embroiled in the culture of dueling.

In contrast, the other individuals listed—Stephen Douglas, Ulysses S. Grant, and Andrew Johnson—were either political contemporaries or significant figures in American history, but they did not have the same direct personal conflict with Shields that led to a duel.