A Shot in the Dark: Investigating Lincoln's Assassination and the Chilling Conspiracy | Part 1

In part one of this two-part series on Body Bags we delve into the assassination and autopsy of President Abraham Lincoln.

Hosts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack analyze the character and motivations of John Wilkes Booth, the layout of Ford's Theater, and the negligent behavior of John Parker, assigned to protect the president. They provide a fascinating explanation of the Philadelphia Deringer's firing mechanism, including its unique preloading process and firing sequence as well as going into Booth's meticulous planning, highlighting his knowledge of the play's comedic timing, Lincoln's potential focus on the orchestra pit, and the painstaking preparation involved in using the Deringer. Throughout this captivating episode, listeners uncover the chilling details and lasting impact of one of the most infamous moments in American history.

Time-codes:

00:25 - JoScott’s surprise at visiting presidential assassination locations.

01:30 - Description of Ford's Theater and the assassination scene.

02:20 - Introduction of Lincoln's assassination and autopsy topic.

06:10 - Discussion of access to the president during Lincoln's time.

07:10 - How did Booth gain access to Lincoln's box at Ford's Theater?

08:45 - Lincoln's well-publicized attendance at the theater.

10:35 - Comparison of past and present presidential security measures.

11:10 - John Parker, the inept officer assigned to protect Lincoln.

13:40 - Background on John Wilkes Booth and his Southern cause support.

16:00 - Long-lasting impact of Lincoln's assassination on the country.

18:15 - Specifics of the weapon used by John Wilkes Booth.

21:35 - Importance of caliber and limitations of Booth's weapon.

23:40 - Preloading the Philadelphia Deringer and its hammer mechanism.

24:55 - Comparison of the Deringer's firing sequence to modern weapons.

26:20 - Demonstration of the Deringer's firing sequence and sound.

27:10 - Proximity of Booth to Lincoln when he fired the weapon.

27:50 - Booth's understanding of the play's comedic timing and assassination planning.

29:40 - Discussion of Booth's planning and escape plan.

30:30 - Process of loading the Derringer and importance of seating the bullet properly.

32:15 - Please join us next time for part two!

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