After Booth refused to surrender to U.S. Army soldiers on April 26, 1865, one shot him. The soldiers retrieved many objects on Booth’s body, showing how much planning he had put into his escape. He had a dagger and revolver, along with a map and compass to navigate. He left behind a diary, which gives us insight into his motives. Booth scribbled his thoughts while he hid in southern Maryland. Read below what Booth wrote about the assassination. Use the Highlight tool to highlight Booth's motives. Then, use the S.O.A.P.S.Tone Analysis Guide to help you determine how Booth justified his actions. Type in your thoughts using the Text tool. After you have completed the Analysis Guide, identify and write down 2 to 6 motivations for killing the president you notice Booth mention in the diary. Then, download and send to your teacher.

Standards for Read and Analyze: John Wilkes Booth's Diary