Lunch and Learn: Lincoln’s Suspension of Habeas Corpus

Abraham Lincoln suspended the writ of habeas corpus during the Civil War. This was controversial at the time and continues to spark debate. What were Lincoln’s legal and practical justifications for this action? Was he recklessly assuming dictatorial powers or acting out of genuine necessity to save the Union? Is it fair to judge Lincoln by today’s standards or should he be evaluated by applying the norms of his time?

These fascinating issues, and others, will be discussed during this lunchtime talk by Connecticut Judge Douglas S. Lavine.

About the Speaker:
Douglas S. Lavine was appointed to the bench by Governor Lowell P. Weicker, Jr., in 1993. He is now a Judge Trial Referee on the Connecticut Appellate Court. A graduate of Colgate University, where he majored in history, he attended Columbia School of Journalism and the University of Connecticut School of Law.   He was a federal prosecutor prior to being appointed to the bench. Judge Lavine is a lifelong admirer of Abraham Lincoln.

Image: Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-cwpb-04352

About the CHS:
Founded in 1825, the Connecticut Historical Society is a non-profit museum, library, research and education center. CHS strives to inspire and foster a life-long interest in history and ignite a passion for learning about history through research assistance, exhibitions, tours and programs for all ages. Visit www.chs.org or call 860.236.5621.

Видео Lunch and Learn: Lincoln’s Suspension of Habeas Corpus канала Connecticut Museum of Culture and History