Having already read some short and lengthy biographies of John Wilkes Booth, I thought I knew this man. However, I was surprised to see new (to me) facts in this Hourly History edition. I didn't realize that Booth's career success came after considerable indifference (or even booing) by theater audiences. Someone took him in hand and taught him how to speak and carry himself.
Another thing I liked about this book was the time they spent on Dr. Mudd. Before reading this, I was unsure EXACTLY what his involvement was in the ensuing crime. This book lays his role out very clearly. Although it was not pointed out in this book, Mary Surratt was the first woman to be executed by the US government.
This book covers the facts, including Booth's pampered early life and his growing unbalance as the Civil War continued. I didn't realize that he did not want either side to fight; he just wanted things to go back the way they were. As Booth became more unhinged, he was not allowed to visit with his older brother, Edwin, until Edwin's wife's death. Not surprisingly, the book states that Booth's mother had him buried in an unmarked grave.
Another thing I liked about this book was the time they spent on Dr. Mudd. Before reading this, I was unsure EXACTLY what his involvement was in the ensuing crime. This book lays his role out very clearly. Although it was not pointed out in this book, Mary Surratt was the first woman to be executed by the US government.
This book covers the facts, including Booth's pampered early life and his growing unbalance as the Civil War continued. I didn't realize that he did not want either side to fight; he just wanted things to go back the way they were. As Booth became more unhinged, he was not allowed to visit with his older brother, Edwin, until Edwin's wife's death. Not surprisingly, the book states that Booth's mother had him buried in an unmarked grave.
