What major theme does Swanson emphasize about the aftermath of the assassination?

• A. The struggle to heal the nation and deliver justice in the wake of national tragedy.
• B. The need to preserve Lincoln's legacy through quick political reform
• C. The importance of military victory in the aftermath
• D. The role of public mourning in shaping policy

Answer: (A)

Swanson’s focus after Lincoln’s assassination is on how a stunned nation moves toward healing by upholding justice. He shows that the country works to transform grief into a principled response: pursuing Booth and the conspirators, and conducting careful trials that reaffirm the rule of law. This process of seeking accountability helps knit the people back together and honors Lincoln’s ideals during the beginnings of Reconstruction. Mourning is present, but it serves the larger aim of restoring trust in leadership and justice, not just celebrating victory or pushing rapid political changes.