The Civil War Book

On this day in the Civil War, Generals Sherman and Johnston meet to sign a political peace agreement. It calls for the cessation of all hostilities and promises general amnesty for all Southerners.

Generals Johnston and Sherman

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, President Lincoln’s body is moved to the East Room of the White House where it will lie in state until the funeral.

Abraham Lincoln mourning badge

(Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, the manhunt for Lincoln’s assassin continues. John Wilkes Booth and another conspirator David Herold arrive in Maryland.

John Wilkes Booth

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, at 7:22 am, President Lincoln dies from the wound inflicted the night before. Andrew Johnson takes the oath of office and assumes the presidency.

President Lincoln

Thought to be the last photograph ever taken of Lincoln

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, in Washington City, President Lincoln begins the day by conferring with his cabinet and General Grant. That evening Lincoln, accompanied by his wife, attends a play called Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theater. Around 10 pm an actor named John Wilkes Booth enters the President’s box through a rear door and shoots him through the back of the head. Booth then hurls himself over the balcony onto the stage, breaking his leg and yelling, “Sic semper tyrannus!’ (“thus always to tyrants!”)

The President is carried to a house across the street and is examined by a doctor who pronounces the wound mortal.

President’s box at Ford’s Theater

Washington D.C.