Abraham Lincoln ended a successful career as a lawyer

in 1854, when the Kansas-Nebraska Act passed and became law.
in 1856, when the Republican Party dissolved over the slavery debate.
because his opposition to the Mexican War made him unpopular.
because he wanted to protest the formation of the Republican Party.

1 answer

Abraham Lincoln did not end his successful career as a lawyer in 1854, 1856, or for the reasons you mentioned. In fact, he continued to practice law until he became more politically active and eventually was elected president in 1860.

Lincoln's political career became significantly more prominent during the debates surrounding the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which contributed to the rise of the Republican Party. He was opposed to the expansion of slavery, which was a key issue during that time. He famously debated Stephen A. Douglas in 1858, which helped raise his national profile.

Therefore, none of the provided options accurately reflect Lincoln's career trajectory in relation to the timing of events surrounding the Kansas-Nebraska Act or the formation of the Republican Party. If you're looking for a more precise historical perspective, please let me know!