Chasing Lincoln's Killer

James L. Swanson earned a B.A. in history and law from the University of Chicago and a J.D. from University of California Los Angeles. He subsequently worked in many research and advisory posts in Washington DC, including at the Department of Justice. He now serves on the Ford’s Theater advisory council.

The notorious assassin of President Abraham Lincoln. Booth was a young, well-known actor who often worked at Ford’s Theater. He was from a prominent acting family. However, his commitment to slavery and the Confederacy led him to sacrifice his career and life and commit one of the most infamous acts of American history.

A former Confederate soldier, Powell was known for his physical strength. He was a dogged follower of Booth for unknown reasons, and allowed himself to be assigned the task of assassinating Secretary of State William Seward. Powell failed at his task, and was seemingly struck by pangs of guilt even in the midst of the attempt.