The Causes and Effects of Abraham Lincoln's Assassination

Document Type:Thesis

Subject Area:History

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This article examines the causes and events that led to Abraham Lincoln's death, how the assassination was carried out, and its aftermath effect on American politics. Before The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln A four-year-long civil war hit America between the abolitionists and confederates. The Confederates won when General Robert E. Lee of the Northern Virginia army surrendered to the Union Army led by Ulysses S. Grant at the Battle of Appomattox. However, both ultimately failed. On the other hand, Lincoln had no idea of Booth's dastardly plans for him. He admired the acting prowess of Booth and used to invite him to the white house. Booth was present at the second inauguration of Abraham Lincoln on March 4, 1865. Booth was a loyal confederate instead of his elder brother Edwin Booth, who supported the Unionist cause.

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The presidential box included Abraham Lincoln, his wife, Mary, Major Henry Rathbone, and his fianceé, Clara Harris. As an actor himself, Booth gained easy access to the theater's upper floor and the presidential box, although restricted. Booth easily infiltrated the unguarded presidential box. John Frederick Parker, assigned to guard the Presidential box, was absent. Booth entered the Ford's Theatre around 10:10 pm. Many physicians, government officials, and cabinet members were around throughout the night. The following morning, exactly 7:22 am on April 15, 1865, Abraham Lincoln died. The fleeing perpetrators were later caught while John Wilkes Booth got shot when he prevented getting arrested. After Lincoln's death, eight conspirators were tried by the military commission delegated to investigate the murder. They included Jerold, Atzerodt, Powell, and Surrat, who were hanged.

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