Is Sam Alito On His Way Out?

In 'The Field of Blood,' Joanne B. Freeman uncovers the long-lost story of physical violence on the floor of the U.S. Congress during the antebellum period. The book details mortal threats, canings, fistfights, and duels among congressmen, particularly over the issue of slavery. Freeman uses the diaries of Benjamin Brown French, a house clerk, along with congressional reports and newspaper articles, to illustrate how these violent incidents reflected and exacerbated sectional tensions between the North and South. The book highlights the role of emotions, honor, and party loyalty in these conflicts and how they contributed to the eventual outbreak of the Civil War. Freeman's narrative brings the antebellum Congress to life, revealing its rough realities and nation-shaping import.

In 'Five Bullets', Elliot Williams examines the infamous case of Bernie Goetz, who shot four teenagers on a New York subway in 1984. The book delves into the racial tensions and societal divides of the era, highlighting figures like Al Sharpton and Rudy Giuliani. Drawing on archives and interviews, Williams presents a vivid tale that illuminates American divides.

Candace Millard's "Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President" delves into the life, presidency, and assassination of James A. Garfield. The book intricately details the political landscape of the late 19th century, highlighting the intense rivalries and corruption that plagued the era. Millard vividly portrays Garfield as a brilliant, reluctant politician who aspired to be a professor and writer. The narrative focuses on Garfield's tragic fate, from the gunshot wound inflicted by a disgruntled office seeker to the medical malpractice that ultimately led to his death. The story is a compelling blend of political intrigue, medical history, and personal tragedy, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history.