Dark History Podcast Episode 165: The Psychotic Actor & Assassin Who Killed America’s Favorite President

Host: Bailey Sarian
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Podcast: Dark History by Audioboom Studios

Introduction

In Episode 165 of Dark History, Bailey Sarian delves into the life of John Wilkes Booth, the infamous actor-turned-assassin who killed President Abraham Lincoln. The episode meticulously unpacks Booth's early life, rise to fame, deep-seated political motives, and the dramatic events leading to Lincoln's assassination. Sarian's engaging narrative ensures that listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of Booth's complex character and the turbulent times he lived in.

Early Life and Upbringing

John Wilkes Booth was born in May 1838 into a prominent family of actors. Growing up on a wealthy farm in Bel Air, Maryland, Booth was the ninth of ten children. His father, Junius Brutus Booth, was a celebrated stage actor in England, renowned for his charisma and talent. However, Junius's tumultuous behavior, including a severe drinking problem and violent outbursts, created a dysfunctional household. Historians suggest that Booth's childhood was marred by instability and neglect, contributing to his later psychological issues.

"John's childhood was extremely dysfunctional." [05:30]

At the age of twelve, Booth began exhibiting troubling behaviors, including killing cats and tattooing his initials "JWB" on his wrist—an unusual act for the 1800s.

"John committed one of the ultimate sins... he tattooed his initials around his wrist." [12:15]

Rise to Acting Stardom

Despite a challenging family environment, Booth pursued his passion for acting. Encouraged by his older brother Edwin, a successful actor, John moved to Philadelphia at nineteen to join the theatrical scene. His debut was rocky; during his first major Shakespearean performance, Booth forgot his lines, earning him harsh criticism and being "hissed" by the audience—a significant insult in the 19th-century theater culture.

"He walked out on stage and just went completely blank." [22:45]

Determined to redeem himself, Booth continued honing his craft. His persistence paid off when he starred alongside Edwin in a play that became a smash hit. Critics soon lauded him as "the handsomest man in America," propelling him into the spotlight. His role in Our American Cousin further solidified his status as a leading actor.

Political Climate and Radicalization

The mid-1800s in America were fraught with tension over slavery and immigration. The passage of the Fugitive Slave Act in 1850 intensified divisions, especially affecting Booth's family, who actively aided escaping enslaved people. The death of a family friend during an attempt to recapture runaway slaves deeply impacted Booth, fostering resentment towards African Americans and fueling his racist ideologies.

"This country was formed for the white, not the black." [34:20]

Booth's disillusionment grew as Abraham Lincoln's rise to power symbolized the threat to the Southern way of life. Lincoln's anti-slavery stance and his support for African American soldiers further radicalized Booth. The actor's increasing involvement with the Know Nothing Party, a group opposing immigration and supporting slavery, reflected his deepening extremist views.

The Assassination Plot

By 1861, with the Civil War erupting, Booth saw Lincoln's presidency as the embodiment of Northern aggression. Initially contemplating kidnapping Lincoln to force an end to the war, Booth's plans escalated to assassination as the conflict dragged on and the South faced mounting losses.

"If I could, I would kill every damn abolitionist in the north." [45:55]

Booth meticulously planned the assassination, leveraging his theatrical connections to gain access to Ford's Theatre. On April 14, 1865, during a performance of Our American Cousin, Booth executed his plan. He slipped into the presidential box, shouted "Sic semper tyrannis" (Thus always to tyrants), and fatally shot Lincoln in the back of the head.

"Death to tyrants." [1:02:30]

Aftermath and Booth's Death

Following Lincoln's assassination, Booth fled Washington, D.C., leading to an intense manhunt. Despite initial public support from some Southern sympathizers, Booth quickly became a notorious fugitive. His escape was marked by desperation and physical injury; he broke his leg during a dramatic leap from the balcony to the stage after the assassination.

"He was desperately trying to get out of there." [1:15:10]

Booth's journey south was fraught with challenges, including lack of support and growing public animosity. Eventually, on April 26, 1865, Booth was cornered at a farm in Virginia. In a final act of defiance, he attempted to fight his way out of a burning barn but was fatally shot by soldiers.

"I die for my country." [1:30:45]

Booth was buried in his family's plot at Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland. His legacy is that of a deeply troubled individual whose actions irrevocably altered American history.

Conclusion

Bailey Sarian's exploration of John Wilkes Booth offers a gripping portrayal of a man driven by ambition, anger, and extremist beliefs. Dark History Episode 165 not only chronicles Booth's life and motives but also provides insight into the broader societal conflicts of 19th-century America. Sarian's meticulous research and engaging storytelling ensure that listeners leave with a nuanced understanding of one of history's most infamous assassins.

"John Wilkes Booth did kind of get his wish. Many people did not forget his name, but not because he was a hero." [1:40:20]

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections as per the episode's guidelines.