Andrew Johnson Impeachment New York Times article

The Johnson Impeachment Trial

  • Context and Significance

    • The impeachment of Andrew Johnson, taking place from February to May 1868, is noted for its lack of documentation and public engagement.

    • It remains a historical black hole, with details of Senate deliberations kept private.

  • Outcome of the Trial

    • The trial concluded with Johnson's acquittal. On May 16, a 35-to-19 vote failed to achieve the necessary two-thirds majority for conviction.

    • A notable shift in support occurred, as seven Republican senators voted in favor of Johnson.

Impeachment Articles

  • Allegations Against Johnson

    • Accusations centered around Johnson's actions regarding the dismissal of Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton.

    • Johnson's presidency was perceived as undermining military authority and disrespecting the law.

Senate Conduct and Procedure

  • Secrecy of Deliberations

    • Senators conducted discussions privately, often retreating to designated areas rather than engaging publicly.

    • Only votes were made public, and the proceedings were heavily monitored to maintain decorum.

  • Limited Documentation

    • The Senate repeatedly rejected motions to document discussions or allow written explanations of senators' views.

    • This led to a significant absence of historical records regarding the rationale behind individual votes.

  • Public Reaction and Atmosphere

    • The trial witnessed a charged atmosphere, with significant public interest, including reactions from onlookers in the galleries.

    • Demonstrations of support or dissent occurred, leading to police intervention to maintain order.

Notable Figures

  • Andrew Johnson

    • As a Democrat, he took office after Lincoln's assassination and opposed the Republican-controlled congress's reconstruction policies.

    • Elicited strong feelings among both supporters and detractors, with debates often personal and intense.

  • Key Senators and Participants

    • Senator Charles Sumner characterized Johnson as embodying negative traits linked to slavery and tyranny.

    • Representative John Bingham of Ohio played a significant role in presenting the case against Johnson during the trial.

Conclusion of the Trial

  • Final Sessions

    • The Senate reconvened after the final vote only once more for two additional articles, both of which also failed to convict Johnson, prompting a celebratory response from the President.

    • Overall, the Johnson impeachment trial illustrated the complex interplay of political power, public opinion, and procedural secrecy during a pivotal time in American history.