Prelude to Reconstruction: Harper’s Ferry through the Corwin Amendment

John Brown leads a raid on Harper’s Ferry and becomes a martyr. The Republicans prepare for their first real shot at the presidency. The Democratic convention disintegrates, the Northern and Southern wings propose competing candidates, and the Deep South prepares for its exit. Lincoln is elected, Southern states secede, and Thomas “Wagon Boy” Corwin tries for one last compromise. The North moves toward abolition as a way to win the war.

Participants: Leigh Barnwell, Harry Sandick, Jon Hatch