Famous constitutional lawyer, U.S. Senator and U.S. Attorney General
Famous for the Slave, Dred Scott case in the Supreme Court
He represented Lincoln Conspirator Mary Surratt
Autograph Letter Signed Twice
(1796-1876) Born at Annapolis, Md., he was a Constitutional lawyer and diplomat. His most famous case was that of the slave Dred Scott, being the major influence in the Supreme Court's decision. He served as U.S. Senator from Maryland, 1845-49, and was Attorney General under President Zachary Taylor. Returning to the senate in 1863, he supported both Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson, working effectively against Johnson's impeachment. He also represented Lincoln conspirator, Mary Surratt, in her trial, but could not save her from being the first woman hung by the U.S. Government.
Autograph Letter Signed Twice: 5 x 8, in ink. Mr. Reverdy Johnson complies with Mr. Ellis' request of the 9th, by subscribing himself, His obdt. Servt., Reverdy Johnson, Senate Chamber, 11 [? month] '64. Boldly written. Very fine.
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