Brian McGinty talked about his book John Brown's Trial (Harvard University Press; October 15, 2009). In his book he recounts the trial of abolitionist John Brown who led an attack on the U.S. armory and arsenal in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, on October 16, 1859. John Brown, who led twenty-one men in the attack, intended to foment a slave rebellion in Virginia. Following his capture Brown went to trial and was hanged in Charles Town, Virgina, on December 2, 1859. Mr. McGinty discussed the John Brown trial from the court house where it took place in what is now Charles Town, West Virgina. He characterized it as the most important trial in American history and listed a number of ways in which it was groundbreaking. He also raised questions about the fairness of the trial. Mr. McGinty responded to questions from members of the audience.

This event in the Jefferson County Courthouse on Thursday, October 15, 2009, was sponsored by the West Virginia Humanities Council. Judge David Sanders gave a history of the courthouse and introduced the speaker.

Brian McGinty, an attorney, is the author other books including Lincoln and the Court.