The Conspirator

On April 14, 1865, the nation celebrates the conclusion of the Civil War, marked by General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House. Frederick Aiken, a lawyer and Union veteran, along with his friends and wife, revels in the jubilant atmosphere of the moment.

On the same night of the celebrations, John Wilkes Booth enters Ford's Theater and shoots President Abraham Lincoln in the back of the head. In the chaos that ensues, Booth also attacks Henry Rathbone before leaping onto the stage and declaring 'Sic Semper Tyrannis!' as he escapes.

The next morning, as word about Lincoln's assassination spreads, the critically injured President is moved to a nearby boarding house. Despite the efforts to save him, he succumbs to his wounds early the following day, profoundly impacting the nation.

In the aftermath of Lincoln's death, Vice President Andrew Johnson ascends to the presidency. His leadership signals a new and turbulent era for the United States during a time of profound national grief and uncertainty.

Following the assassination, Secretary of War Edwin Stanton orders the arrest of all suspected conspirators, including Mary Surratt. The authorities quickly intensify their efforts to unearth those involved in the plot against the President.

While Booth and David Herold manage to avoid capture for several days following the assassination, their luck eventually runs out. Union soldiers discover their hideout and set the barn ablaze, prompting Herold to surrender.

Booth is confronted by Union soldiers in the barn where he is hiding and, when he attempts to brandish his rifle, he is shot dead by Sergeant Boston Corbett. This moment marks the end of the manhunt for one of America's most notorious assassins.

Mary Surratt's Defense Attorney, Reverdy Johnson, struggles to defend her due to his Southern sympathies. He ultimately enlists Frederick Aiken's help to provide a more robust defense, presenting the challenges of navigating the complex political climate.

Visiting Mary Surratt in her cell, Aiken learns of her concerns for her daughter, Anna. Determined to gather evidence that may help prove her innocence, he discovers a crucial ticket linking Louis J. Weichmann to Booth, igniting further investigation.

When Louis Weichmann takes the stand, his testimony reveals John's secret meetings with Booth and other conspirators. Aiken skillfully questions Weichmann, challenging the credibility of his claims while simultaneously connecting the dots of conspiracy.

In a private meeting, Mary Surratt claims that the initial plan was to kidnap Lincoln, asserting that Booth acted independently. This revelation complicates Aiken's understanding of her guilt and the dynamics at play within the conspiracy.

During the trial, prosecutor Joseph Holt calls John Lloyd to testify against Mary Surratt, accusing her of orchestrating the assassination plot. Aiken's aggressive questioning exposes Lloyd’s alcoholism, creating a volatile scene in the courtroom.

Aiken faces personal repercussions as he learns that his membership with the prestigious Century Club has been revoked due to his defense of Mary Surratt. This decision strains his relationship with his wife Sarah, ultimately leading to her leaving him.

Aiken pleads with Anna to testify on behalf of her mother, pointing out discrepancies in the evidence against Mary. Anna's eventual testimony shifts some blame onto her brother John, complicating the narrative around Mary’s involvement.

Despite Aiken's relentless pursuit to appeal Mary Surratt’s conviction and secure her freedom, she is found guilty and sentenced to execution. This grim outcome is orchestrated by the influence of Secretary Stanton and represents the tragic end to a highly controversial trial.

Fifteen months after the tumult of the trial, Aiken visits John Surratt, who is now captured and imprisoned. Following this, Aiken turns towards a new chapter in his life, taking a position as the first City Editor for The Washington Post.