Subject
Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865 -- Assassination Books
Best books
T. M. (Thomas Mealey) Harris
Assassination of Lincoln: a History of the Great Conspiracy Trial of the Conspirators by a Military Commission, and a Review of the Trial of John H. Surratt
"Assassination of Lincoln: A History of the Great Conspiracy" by T. M. Harris is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the conspiracy surrounding the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, detailing the trials of the conspirators and the broader implications of their actions in relation to the Civil War. The narrative aims to unearth the complexities of the plot and examine the individuals involved, shedding light on the political tensions of the era. The opening of the work provides essential context for understanding the gravity of Lincoln's assassination, addressing both the conspiracy itself and the military trial of its perpetrators. Harris explains the original intentions behind the assassination attempts on key political figures, illustrating the backdrop of a nation in turmoil over the issue of slavery and rebellion. He sets the stage for a detailed recounting of the events leading up to Lincoln's murder, the conspiracy's orchestration, and the repercussions felt across the United States in the aftermath. The text emphasizes the significant political and social aftermath of the assassination, offering readers both a historical recount and an analysis of its broader implications on American society.
George Alfred Townsend
The Life, Crime, and Capture of John Wilkes Booth
"The Life, Crime, and Capture of John Wilkes Booth" by George Alfred Townsend is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work centers around the infamous assassination of President Abraham Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth, detailing Booth's background, the conspiracy behind the act, and the subsequent pursuit and fate of his accomplices. At the start of the narrative, Townsend sets the scene in Washington, D.C., on the fateful day of April 14, when Booth, the well-dressed actor, prepared for his heinous deed at Ford's Theater. It describes Booth’s meticulously planned approach, including his interactions and movements leading up to the assassination. He manages to capture the atmosphere of the theater, the audience's excitement, and the moment of the assassination itself, illustrating Booth's actions with vivid detail. The opening portion establishes not only the dramatic tension of the event but also begins to build an intricate portrayal of Booth's character and the gravity of his crime against a beloved leader.
David Miller DeWitt
The Judicial Murder of Mary E. Surratt
"The Judicial Murder of Mary E. Surratt" by David Miller DeWitt is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the trial of Mary E. Surratt, who was charged as a conspirator in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. It delves into the judicial proceedings that led to her execution, scrutinizing the fairness of the military court and the broader implications for justice during a tumultuous time in American history. The opening of the book sets the scene during the aftermath of Lincoln's assassination, detailing the chaotic atmosphere in Washington D.C. and the panic that ensued. It introduces key figures such as Edwin M. Stanton, the Secretary of War, and General Lafayette C. Baker, who leads the investigation into the assassination. As the narrative progresses, the rush to judgement becomes evident as innocents like Surratt are swept up in a frenzied quest for vengeance. DeWitt constructs a tragic portrait of Surratt, painting her not only as a participant in the political machinations of her time but also as a victim of a justice system that appeared rigged against her from the outset.
Charles A. (Charles Augustus) Leale
Lincoln's Last Hours
"Lincoln's Last Hours" by Charles A. Leale, M. D. is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the tragic events surrounding the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, focusing on the final hours of his life as experienced by Dr. Leale, who served as a surgeon. The narrative serves not only as a compelling recounting of the events of that fateful night but also as a personal reflection on the immense responsibility and emotional weight carried by those present during Lincoln's last moments. In this detailed account, Dr. Leale shares his experience at Ford's Theatre on the night of April 14, 1865, when Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth. Describing the chaos that ensued following the shooting, he details his immediate response as he rushed to assist the wounded president. Through his vivid recollections, readers gain insight into the medical efforts made to save Lincoln, the emotional turmoil experienced by those present, including Mary Todd Lincoln, and the historical significance of the moment. Ultimately, Leale's account is both a tribute to Lincoln's legacy and a somber reminder of the harrowing impact of his assassination on the nation.
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