‘No, not tired; but don’t keep me waiting longer than necessary’ – John Brown

John Brown, the radical abolitionist of slavery, was hanged in Charles Town, Viriginia, on 2 December 1859, after being found guilty of treason against the state of Virginia.

Here is a dramatic newspaper story – published just three weeks after the event – that reports on the execution of Brown.

As a special bonus, we’ve also included a letter written by Victor Hugo in 1860, in which he offers his thoughts on John Brown.

Newcastle Journal – Saturday 24 December 1859

Image © THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000243/18591224/003/0002

Wells Journal – Saturday 23 June 1860

Image © THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000308/18600623/022/0005