The Battle of Fort Fisher, N.C.

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Lincoln's Killing Shocked the Nation-- Part 5: Chicago

It was the morning of April 15, 150 years ago that the tribune headlines read "The Terrible News."  The news of his assassination hit Chicagoans particularly hard for Lincoln " was identified with us" and "had laughed and talked with us, had labored for us."

Many Chicagoans knew him.

The Tribune compared the act was in comparison to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ (and it occurred on Good Friday).

News of the assassination came in so late Friday, that most people didn't learn about it until they read their Saturday newspapers.  Distraught residents took to the streets and crowded newspaper offices for the latest news.  The Tribune reported that "strong men wept in the streets.  It was eerily silent Chicago where the main sound heard was sobbing.

--Old Secesh

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