Ex parte Merryman: Habeas Corpus During the Civil War | Federal Judicial Center

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Ex parte Merryman: Habeas Corpus During the Civil War

In the opening weeks of the Civil War, the Chief Justice of the United States publicly challenges President Lincoln to protect the civil liberties of a Confederate sympathizer.

Famous Federal Trials

Learn about the case
Teaching Resources

by Bruce A. Ragsdale, Director, Federal Judicial History Office, Federal Judicial Center

Learn about the case — historical background and documents

View/Download PDF (557.44 KB)

Classroom Materials and Activities

Power Point Lecture (PowerPoint, 99.6 MB)

Student Handout (PDF, 153.16 KB)

Debates on Lincoln's Suspension of Habeas Corpus — A Primary Source Activity (PDF, 96.38 KB)

Congressional Debate on the Suspension of Habeas Corpus — A Simulation Activity (PDF, 99.27 KB)

Ex parte Merryman and Quirin — A Comparative Activity (PDF, 123.47 KB)

Resources for Judges

Ex parte Merryman — Suggestions for Judges (PDF, 146.06 KB)