Overview
In Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever, acclaimed authors Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard deliver a riveting narrative of one of the most dramatic events in American history. This book recounts the series of events that culminated in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln—a single gunshot at Ford's Theatre that forever altered the course of a nation.
Synopsis
Set against the backdrop of the turbulent spring of 1865, Killing Lincoln explores the dramatic conclusion of America's Civil War. President Lincoln's generous terms for Confederate surrender were intended to foster national healing. However, in the midst of patriotic celebrations in Washington D.C., John Wilkes Booth—described as a charismatic ladies' man and an impenitent racist—murdered Lincoln, plunging the nation into chaos. The subsequent manhunt, led by determined detective Lafayette C. Baker, and a series of court-ordered executions, including that of Mary Surratt, reveal the dark and tumultuous aftermath of that fateful day.
Key Themes
- Historical Impact: How the assassination reshaped the political and cultural landscape of America.
- Political Intrigue: The covert operations, conspiracies, and secrets that surrounded the event.
- Legacy of Leadership: Reflections on Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and the enduring influence of his vision for national unity.
- Cultural Transformation: The profound effects of the tragedy on American society and its long-term consequences, including the onset of the Vietnam War.
Book Details
ISBN-13: 9780805096668
ISBN-10: 0805096663
Conclusion
Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever is a masterful blend of historical research and thrilling narrative that brings one of the most pivotal moments in American history to life. Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard not only chronicle the events of that fateful day but also explore the enduring legacy of President Lincoln and the profound impact of his death on the nation. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of American history and the forces that continue to shape our world.
Step behind the scenes of history and discover how one gunshot can change the course of a nation forever.