Mass Pardons in America: Rebellion, Presidential Amnesty, and Reconciliation

Presidents of the United States have used mass pardons to reconcile with domestic rebels and reunite the country. This book examines when and why presidents have issued pardons, analyzing how they have used deeds and words to foster political reconciliation. It features case studies of key instances of mass pardons in U.S. history, including George Washington's, John Adams's, James Buchanan's, Benjamin Harrison's, Grover Cleveland's, Abraham Lincoln's, and Andrew Johnson's. The book offers new perspectives on the presidents pardon power, unilateral presidential actions, and presidential rhetoric.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2021
Publisher: Columbia University Press

The history of the United States has been marked by the challenging task of dealing with domestic insurrection, and presidents have sought various means to reconcile with the rebels. This book is a comprehensive exploration of how presidential mass pardons have played a significant role in resolving such conflicts. Graham G. Dodds delves into the timing and motivations behind presidents issuing mass pardons and amnesties to address domestic rebellion and foster national unity. Through meticulous analysis, Dodds examines how presidents have employed both deeds and words, such as proclamations of mass pardons and persuasive rhetoric, to promote political reconciliation.

The book offers in-depth case studies of key historical instances of mass pardons in the United States. It begins with George Washington and John Adams pardoning participants in armed insurrections in Pennsylvania during the 1790s. In the nineteenth century, James Buchanan, Benjamin Harrison, and Grover Cleveland issued pardons to Mormon insurrectionists and polygamists, while Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson pardoned Confederates during and after the Civil War. More recently, Dodds examines Gerald Ford's clemency and Jimmy Carter's amnesty of Vietnam War resisters.

Mass Pardons in America goes beyond these specific events and provides fresh perspectives on the power of the president's pardon, unilateral presidential actions, and presidential rhetoric. Its implications extend to various fields, including political history, presidential studies, and legal history. By examining the use of mass pardons, this book sheds light on the complex dynamics between the presidency, the law, and society, contributing to our understanding of American political history and governance.

Weight: 436g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231200790