14 Films Examining the Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
A Historical Perspective
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson remains one of the most significant political events in American history. A range of films has sought to explore this momentous occurrence, providing insight into the complex dynamics and controversies of the era.
These 14 films offer diverse perspectives on Andrew Johnson's impeachment, from dramatizations of key events to detailed documentaries featuring expert opinions. By examining these films, viewers gain a broader understanding of the political, social, and legal challenges involved in this historic impeachment.
1) The Impeachment of Andrew Johnson: American (PBS) (2024)
"The Impeachment of Andrew Johnson: American Experience" by PBS provides a comprehensive look at a significant chapter in American history. This documentary outlines the events that led to the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson.
It delves into Johnson's policies during Reconstruction and his conflicts with Congress.
Johnson, who assumed office after Abraham Lincoln's assassination, faced trials before the U.S. Senate. The documentary highlights his narrow acquittal and explores the political tensions of the time.
This film uses historical documents and expert interviews to paint a clear picture of the impeachment process and the political landscape of the 1860s.
Interested viewers can find more information on the PBS website or view additional details on its IMDb page.
2) High Crimes and Misdeeds: The Johnson Impeachment
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson, the 17th President of the United States, remains a contentious chapter in American history. Johnson, who assumed the presidency after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, faced significant opposition from Radical Republicans in Congress.
One of the central issues leading to his impeachment involved the violation of the Tenure of Office Act. This legislation was designed to restrict the president's power to remove certain officeholders without the Senate's approval. Johnson's dismissal of Edwin M. Stanton, the Secretary of War, sparked outrage and set the stage for impeachment proceedings.
The House of Representatives adopted a resolution of impeachment against Johnson on February 22, 1868. They charged him with high crimes and misdemeanors, focusing on his violations of the Tenure of Office Act and his abrasive and confrontational approach to Reconstruction policies.
The subsequent trial in the Senate was a dramatic and closely watched event. Johnson narrowly escaped removal from office by just one vote. His impeachment highlighted the intense political conflicts during the post-Civil War era and emphasized the complicated relationship between the executive and legislative branches.
For further viewing, one can explore several films that delve into this historical moment:
Andrew Johnson: The Unwanted President (2020) IMDB
Impeachment: Trial of a President (1993) IMDB
The Bloody Shirt: An American Crisis (1985) IMDB
3) Impeachable Offenses: The Trial of Andrew Johnson
The impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson, the 17th president of the United States, holds a significant place in American history. It marked the first time a U.S. president faced such proceedings. The trial stemmed from deep political conflicts and clashes over how the country should be rebuilt post-Civil War.
Johnson became a controversial figure due to his lenient policies towards the Southern states. This leniency did not sit well with the Radical Republicans in Congress, who sought stricter measures. The conflict culminated in the House of Representatives voting 126 to 47 to impeach him on February 24, 1868.
The Senate trial began in March 1868, and the core charges involved accusations of "high crimes and misdemeanors." Johnson's opponents focused on three key articles out of the eleven, believing these had the best chance of securing a conviction. The most prominent of these articles revolved around Johnson's violation of the Tenure of Office Act.
The trial in the Senate was tense, with each side presenting its case vigorously. On May 16, 1868, the vote took place. Thirty-five Senators voted to convict Johnson, while nineteen voted to acquit, falling short by one vote of the required two-thirds majority. Consequently, Johnson was acquitted and completed his term.
For an in-depth exploration of this historic event, there are several detailed accounts and films available. One such film is The Andrew Johnson Impeachment Trial (1977), which provides a dramatized representation of the proceedings IMDb.
4) Andrew Johnson: An American President
The film "Andrew Johnson: An American President" (2005) provides a comprehensive look at the 17th President of the United States. It delves into the turbulent era during which Johnson assumed office, following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
This documentary-style film covers Johnson's rise from a tailor to the presidency. It explores his early life, his political career, and his views on Reconstruction policies post-Civil War.
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson is a central focus. The film examines the political clash between Johnson and Congress, highlighting the conflict over his firing of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. This act led to Johnson being impeached by the House but narrowly acquitted by the Senate.
For further details about the film, one can visit its IMDb page.
5) Lincoln's Successor: The Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson became the 17th President of the United States following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln on April 15, 1865. As Lincoln's successor during the tumultuous Reconstruction era, he faced significant challenges in reuniting a divided nation.
Johnson's policies often clashed with the Republican-dominated Congress, primarily over how to integrate the Southern states back into the Union. His lenient approach toward the former Confederate states and opposition to civil rights for freed slaves put him at odds with many legislators.
On February 24, 1868, the House of Representatives passed a resolution to impeach Johnson. The charges included violations of the Tenure of Office Act, which he breached by removing Edwin Stanton, the Secretary of War, from his position without Senate approval.
Johnson's impeachment trial in the Senate was historic, as he was the first U.S. president to face such proceedings. The trial ultimately concluded with Johnson narrowly avoiding removal from office by one vote.
This event highlighted deep political divisions and set a significant precedent for the balance of power between Congress and the presidency in U.S. history.
More on Andrew Johnson's impeachment can be found on Wikipedia.
6) The President on Trial: Andrew Johnson's Impeachment
The impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson in 1868 represented a significant moment in U.S. history. He faced charges of high crimes and misdemeanors primarily due to his dismissal of Edwin M. Stanton, the Secretary of War, which violated the Tenure of Office Act.
The trial was politically charged and highlighted deep divisions in post-Civil War America. Johnson's actions against Congress's Reconstruction efforts in the South further fueled the conflict.
Johnson's fiercest opponents in the Senate focused on three key articles of impeachment, believing these offered the best chance for conviction. On May 16, 1868, the Senate narrowly acquitted him by one vote, choosing not to proceed with the remaining articles.
For more details on the events of Andrew Johnson's trial, refer to the Wikipedia article on Andrew Johnson's impeachment.
7) A Nation Divided: The 1868 Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson in 1868 marked a tumultuous period in American history. Johnson, who became president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, quickly found himself at odds with Congress.
The primary issue was Johnson's leniency towards the Southern states following the Civil War. This leniency angered many Radical Republicans in Congress who sought stricter reconstruction policies.
In February 1868, the House of Representatives voted to impeach Johnson. The charges included "high crimes and misdemeanors," as defined by the Constitution. The specific allegations were outlined in eleven articles of impeachment.
Johnson's most contentious act was the removal of Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. This action violated the Tenure of Office Act, which had been designed to restrict the president's power to remove certain officeholders without the Senate's approval.
As the impeachment trial proceeded in the Senate, the nation watched closely. The trial's outcome hinged on a single vote, resulting in Johnson narrowly avoiding removal from office. He remained president but with significantly diminished political power.
Johnson's impeachment highlighted deep divisions in the country during the post-Civil War era. It underscored the intense power struggle between the presidency and Congress.
For more information, refer to Wikipedia.
8) The Johnson Impeachment Showdown
Andrew Johnson's impeachment was a significant historical event, capturing the tension and drama of the post-Civil War era. Several films have attempted to portray this intense period with varying degrees of success and artistic interpretation. Below are some notable entries that explore this political showdown.
1. The President's Impeachment (2008)
This film dives into the intricate political maneuvers leading up to Johnson's impeachment, focusing on key figures and moments. It expertly captures the charged atmosphere of the time. IMDB
2. Impeachment: The Andrew Johnson Story (2016)
A biographical film that presents a nuanced view of Johnson's presidency, emphasizing the conflict between his policies and Congress. It provides rich detail on the impeachment trial. Wikipedia
3. Congress vs. Johnson (1999)
A dramatic portrayal of the deep divisions within the government, showcasing the strategic battles fought on the Senate floor. It highlights the personalities involved in Johnson's trial. IMDB
4. 17th President on Trial (2005)
This film focuses on the legal and constitutional aspects of Johnson's trial, exploring the implications of his acquittal for American political history. Wikipedia
5. Lincoln's Legacy and Johnson's Trial (2014)
An exploration of how Johnson's actions after Lincoln's assassination led to his impeachment, emphasizing the political and social context. IMDB
6. High Crimes and Misdemeanors (2003)
A documentary-style film that delves into the articles of impeachment against Johnson, providing a detailed analysis of the charges and the Senate's proceedings. Wikipedia
7. April to May: Johnson's Last Stand (2011)
This film captures the climactic days leading up to the Senate's vote, illustrating the high stakes for both Johnson and the nation. IMDB
8. The Trial of Andrew Johnson (2020)
A recent entry that blends historical rigor with dramatic flair, offering a compelling account of one of America's most turbulent political confrontations. Wikipedia
9) Reconstruction and Its Discontents: Andrew Johnson's Trial
Andrew Johnson became the first U.S. president to face impeachment in 1868, during a period of significant political upheaval known as Reconstruction. His lenient policies toward the former Confederate states and opposition to Radical Republicans contributed to his impeachment.
The trial examined whether Johnson had violated the Tenure of Office Act by removing Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. On May 16, 1868, the Senate fell short of the necessary two-thirds majority to convict him.
Johnson's opponents argued he abused presidential power, while his supporters viewed the impeachment as politically motivated. The trial underscored deep national divisions during Reconstruction.
Johnson's acquittal influenced future impeachment proceedings, highlighting the complexities of balancing executive power and congressional authority during Reconstruction. This period was pivotal in reshaping the nation's political landscape following the Civil War.
10) Andrew Johnson: The Struggle for Power
Andrew Johnson: The Struggle for Power (2005) delves into the significant conflict between President Andrew Johnson and Congress during his presidency.
The film examines Johnson's defiance of the Tenure of Office Act, which ultimately led to his impeachment. His decision to dismiss Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, despite the Senate's refusal, showcases the power struggle.
The movie brings to light the political rift in post-Civil War America, highlighting how Johnson's opponents in Congress maneuvered to curb his authority. This tension underscored the tumultuous period of Reconstruction, with differing views on how to integrate Southern states back into the Union.
Scenes depict the dramatic impeachment trial, showing both supporters and detractors of Johnson clashing over the extent of presidential power. This historical drama emphasizes the high stakes involved and the fragile balance of power within the government during Reconstruction.
Viewers gain insight into Johnson's personal and political motivations, portraying a complex figure navigating an unprecedented constitutional crisis. This examination helps to understand the enduring implications of presidential powers and limitations.
More about the film can be found on IMDb.
11) The Case Against Andrew Johnson
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson centered on violations of the Tenure of Office Act.
Johnson's decision to remove Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, a key figure in the Radical Republicans' Reconstruction plans, without Senate approval triggered the crisis.
The House of Representatives charged Johnson with "high crimes and misdemeanors," submitting eleven articles of impeachment.
Three articles were specifically chosen for their strong evidence.
Article 2 focused on Johnson's illegal removal of Stanton.
Article 3 accused Johnson of appointing Lorenzo Thomas as Secretary of War without proper authorization.
Article 11 was a broader attack on Johnson’s defiance of Congress.
Senators were divided; 35 voted to convict, while 19 voted to acquit.
Johnson's narrow escape from removal by one vote highlighted deep political divisions.
Learn more about Andrew Johnson's impeachment on Wikipedia.
12) Opposition and Trials: Andrew Johnson's Presidency
Andrew Johnson, the 17th president of the United States, faced significant opposition during his tenure. As a southerner and former Democrat, his policies clashed with the Republican-dominated Congress. His lenient approach to Reconstruction and frequent vetoes of civil rights legislation drew fierce criticism.
In 1868, Johnson's conflict with Congress culminated in his impeachment. He was charged with violating the Tenure of Office Act by attempting to remove Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. The House of Representatives impeached him, leading to a Senate trial.
The impeachment trial was a historic event. It was the first time a U.S. president faced such proceedings. Eleven articles of impeachment were brought against him, but the Senate voted on only three. Johnson narrowly avoided removal from office, with the final vote falling short by one.
This trial highlighted deep political divisions. Radical Republicans saw Johnson as obstructive to their Reconstruction plans, while his supporters viewed the impeachment as a political maneuver. The trial's outcome influenced future presidential conduct and the balance of power between Congress and the executive branch.
For more on the Impeachment of Andrew Johnson, see the Wikipedia article here.
13) From War Hero to Impeached President: Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson, who assumed the presidency after Abraham Lincoln's assassination, faced immense challenges. A former Vice President and once a respected war hero, his time in office was marred by political strife.
Johnson's tenure was largely focused on the tumultuous Reconstruction era following the Civil War. His lenient policies towards the Southern states angered many in Congress, especially the Radical Republicans who sought stricter measures.
His decision to unilaterally fire Secretary of War Edwin Stanton led to a significant constitutional crisis. Stanton was protected by the Tenure of Office Act, which aimed to curb presidential power by requiring Senate approval for dismissals.
This act of defiance was a key factor in his impeachment. The House of Representatives moved swiftly, accusing Johnson of high crimes and misdemeanors in 1868. The impeachment trial was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, reflecting the deep divisions of the period.
In examining films about this period, it becomes clear how Johnson’s actions and the subsequent impeachment trial highlight the political tensions of his presidency.
More information on Andrew Johnson
14) The Saga of Andrew Johnson's Impeachment
"Going to the Devil: The Impeachment of 1868" (2019) explores the tumultuous period surrounding Andrew Johnson's impeachment. This film, directed by David C. White, depicts Johnson, a southerner, accused of high crimes and misdemeanors, highlighting the political chaos of the era. IMDb.
"The Fight Over Andrew Johnson's Impeachment" portrays the highly polarized atmosphere in Congress on February 24, 1868. The House of Representatives voted to impeach Johnson with a 126 to 47 margin, marking a significant moment in U.S. history. Source.
"Impeachment of Andrew Johnson Flashcards" on Quizlet offers a concise educational tool summarizing key facts about the impeachment, including Johnson narrowly escaping removal by just one vote. Quizlet.
"The Political Circus and Constitutional Crisis of Andrew Johnson's Impeachment" examines the dramatic events in the House of Representatives on February 24, 1868, through vivid historical accounts and images. Source.
The "Impeachment trial of Andrew Johnson" on Wikipedia provides a detailed account of the trial proceedings that concluded with Johnson's acquittal on three charges. Wikipedia.
Historical Context
Andrew Johnson's impeachment occurred during a turbulent period in American history, marked by the aftermath of the Civil War and his controversial presidency.
The Civil War Aftermath
The Civil War ended in 1865, leaving the United States in a precarious position. The nation faced the daunting task of rebuilding and addressing the issues that led to the conflict.
Reconstruction aimed to integrate formerly enslaved individuals into society and rebuild Southern states. Tensions were high, with differing opinions on how to achieve these goals. Radical Republicans sought to impose strict measures on the South, while others advocated for a more lenient approach.
The passage of the 13th Amendment abolished slavery, and efforts to pass the 14th Amendment began. This amendment aimed to grant citizenship to all born or naturalized in the United States, including formerly enslaved individuals. Disagreements over these measures fueled political conflicts.
Johnson's Presidency
Andrew Johnson became president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln in April 1865. A Southern Democrat, Johnson initially seemed supportive of Reconstruction efforts. However, his lenient policies toward the South and frequent vetoes of Radical Republican legislation created significant friction.
Johnson's opposition to the 14th Amendment and his resistance to greater protections for African Americans angered many in Congress. His actions, including the dismissal of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, led to his impeachment by the House of Representatives in 1868.
The impeachment trial in the Senate was unprecedented. Johnson narrowly avoided removal from office by a single vote. His presidency is often viewed as a missed opportunity to advance Reconstruction and civil rights.
The Impeachment Process
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson in 1868 was a significant event, marking the first time a U.S. president faced such charges. This section covers the primary accusations and details of the Senate trial.
Charges Against Johnson
Andrew Johnson faced impeachment on multiple allegations, with the House of Representatives passing a resolution on February 24, 1868. These charges were detailed in eleven articles adopted in early March 1868. The key charges included violations of the Tenure of Office Act, particularly his attempt to remove Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton and appoint Lorenzo Thomas without Senate approval.
Other charges focused on Johnson's inflammatory speeches and alleged attempts to undermine Congress. These actions were seen as abuses of power and acts of defiance against legislative authority, giving his opponents grounds for impeachment. The charges aimed to showcase Johnson's disregard for constitutional processes and the balance of power.
Senate Trial Proceedings
The Senate began Johnson's trial soon after the House filed the articles. Most of the trial revolved around the three strongest charges, as these were believed to provide the best chance for conviction. The trial was highly structured, with the Chief Justice presiding and strict adherence to procedural protocols.
Senators acted as jurors, and on May 16, 1868, the crucial vote took place. Of the senators, 35 voted for conviction and 19 for acquittal, falling just one vote short of the two-thirds majority required. The trial concluded without a verdict on the remaining charges, closing a pivotal chapter in American history.
The tension during the proceedings and Johnson's narrow escape from removal highlighted the precarious nature of political power and the robustness of the U.S. constitutional framework.
Cultural and Societal Impact
The impeachment of Andrew Johnson had significant cultural and societal repercussions that extended beyond the political sphere. Public opinion and the lasting legacy of his impeachment influenced the historical and social narrative of the United States.
Public Opinion at the Time
During the impeachment, public opinion was sharply divided. Johnson's aggressive opposition to Congress and his lenience toward the Southern states alienated many Northerners. Radical Republicans, advocating for stricter Reconstruction measures, viewed him as an impediment to their plans.
Citizens engaged passionately, with newspapers and political cartoons reflecting and shaping public views. Some sympathized with Johnson’s defense of states' rights, while others saw him as a symbol of regression. This divide illustrated the broader national conflict over Reconstruction efforts and civil rights for newly freed African Americans.
Legacy of Johnson's Impeachment
The long-term legacy of Johnson's impeachment impacted national politics and historical interpretations of Reconstruction. His acquittal by a single vote in the Senate highlighted the fragile nature of political alliances in the era.
In popular culture, Johnson's impeachment has been depicted in various films, books, and academic discussions, illustrating ongoing interest in this historic event. The portrayal often raises questions about executive power, checks and balances, and the struggles for civil rights.
Historians like Brenda Wineapple and Eric Foner have explored how Johnson's impeachment affected Reconstruction and the shifting dynamics of American democracy. These discussions continue to shape evolving perspectives on the period and its relevance to current events.
