Holt, Joseph, 1807-1894
Dates
- Existence: 1807 - 1894
Biography
Joseph Holt (January 6, 1807 – August 1, 1894) was an American lawyer, soldier, and politician. As a leading member of the Buchanan administration, he succeeded in convincing Buchanan to oppose the secession of the South. He returned to Kentucky and successfully battled the secessionist element thereby helping to keep Kentucky in the Union. President Abraham Lincoln appointed him the Judge Advocate General of the United States Army. He served as Lincoln's chief arbiter and enforcer of military law, and supporter of emancipation. His most famous roles came in the Lincoln assassination trials.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
US President Abraham Lincoln letter
Letter from US President Abraham Lincoln to the Judge Advocate General, stating his belief that Capt. Champlain is innocent of intentional wrong, and solicits opinion as to what relief, if any, he can offer him. Written on the back of Capt, Champlain's petition, a portion of which, including part of his signature, has been clipped away.