Lewis Powell: The conspirator who was "different."

[PaigeBooth]

I agree with Betty and Laurie! And yes, Mr. Kauffman's American Brutus is WONDERFUL. It thoroughly covers every twist and turn of the assassination, and is something I think anyone studying Lincoln's assassination should read.

I also agree concerning the horrid aftereffect the war might have had on Powell. Imagine the gruesome sites Lewis Powell must have seen throughout the war; this would be enough to scar anyone. I think it would be almost impossible for someone who entered such a horrible war at such a young age, to walk out of it without some disturbing thoughts. No one can condone assassination, but I personally believe that every young man who selflessly joined the army to fight for a Cause so dear to their heart (and this includes Mr. Powell) was good in a sense of loving there country unconditionally.

I always like to say that American history (any type of history) is so much more than the dates and the times in which things occurred. History (particularly the Civil War and Lincoln Assassination) is a fascinating study of people, and the time period in which they lived, how they thought, and how their decisions (whether they were good, bad, evil, or kind) ultimately affected our world and how we see and appreciate it today.

Betty, correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't Powell attend school and receive what was considered a proper education at that time? I think you also mentioned to me awhile back that Powell's mother attended an all girl school in Georgia? Thanks for all your research!