Lunch and Learn: Lincoln’s Suspension of Habeas Corpus

Abraham Lincoln suspended the writ of habeas corpus during the Civil War. This was controversial at the time and continues to spark debate. What were Lincoln’s legal and practical justifications for this action? Was he recklessly assuming dictatorial powers or acting out of genuine necessity to save the Union? Is it fair to judge Lincoln by today’s standards or should he be evaluated by applying the norms of his time?  

 These fascinating issues, and others, will be discussed during this lunchtime talk by Connecticut Judge Douglas S. Lavine. 

  This virtual program is free. To secure a spot, click here to register now. You will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom link attached, and we will send you a reminder on the day of the program.  

Questions? Contact Jennifer Busa, Public Programs and Special Events Coordinator, at [email protected]. 

 About the Speaker 

Douglas S. Lavine was appointed to the bench by Governor Lowell P. Weicker, Jr., in 1993. He is now a Judge Trial Referee on the Connecticut Appellate Court. A graduate of Colgate University, where he majored in history, he attended  Columbia School of Journalism and the University of Connecticut School of Law.   He was a  federal prosecutor prior to being appointed to the bench. Judge Lavine is a lifelong admirer of Abraham Lincoln. 

Image: Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-cwpb-04352