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.