Mary Lincoln's Insanity Case

By Jason Emerson,

Book cover of Mary Lincoln's Insanity Case: A Documentary History

Book description

In 1875 Mary Lincoln, the widow of a revered president, was committed to an insane asylum by her son, Robert. The trial that preceded her internment was a subject of keen national interest. The focus of public attention since Abraham Lincoln's election in 1860, Mary Lincoln had attracted plentiful criticism…

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Why read it?

1 author picked Mary Lincoln's Insanity Case as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

In 1875, the nation was shocked when Robert Lincoln, by then the only surviving son of Abraham and Mary Lincoln, began proceedings to have his mother declared insane by an Illinois jury. As a result, Mary spent several months in a private asylum before she managed to regain her freedom. In this book, Jason Emerson collects family correspondence, newspaper accounts, asylum progress reports, and other documents, allowing us to review the evidence for this tragic, often luridly misrepresented period of Mary Lincoln's life. As someone who likes to consult primary sources whenever possible, I found it invaluable.

From Susan's list on First Lady Mary Lincoln.

Want books like Mary Lincoln's Insanity Case?

Our community of 10,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Mary Lincoln's Insanity Case.

Browse books like Mary Lincoln's Insanity Case

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in mental disorders, American first ladies, and Mary Todd Lincoln?

10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about mental disorders, American first ladies, and Mary Todd Lincoln.

Mental Disorders Explore 158 books about mental disorders
American First Ladies Explore 39 books about American first ladies
Mary Todd Lincoln Explore 9 books about Mary Todd Lincoln