Ep 7. Dan Sickles: The General Who Got Away with Murder

In season 3, episode 7 of Civil War Journal, viewers are taken on a journey through the infamous life of Dan Sickles, a general who is known for getting away with murder during the Civil War.

Sickles was a controversial figure during his time, and this episode delves deep into his legacy. The hour-long documentary highlights Sickles' rise to power and his eventual downfall. The episode is narrated by historian Mike Murray and features a variety of interviews with experts in the field of Civil War history.

The episode's title refers to Sickles' murder of his wife's lover, Philip Barton Key II, in 1859. Sickles' defense in court was one of temporary insanity, which was a groundbreaking legal strategy at the time. The murder and subsequent trial brought Sickles into the limelight and solidified his reputation as an eccentric and unpredictable figure.

Eventually, Sickles was appointed as a general during the Civil War. He is remembered for his innovative tactics and for leading Union soldiers in pivotal battles such as Gettysburg. However, his professional achievements are often overshadowed by his personal scandals.

The episode explores Sickles' controversial actions during the Civil War, including his insubordination towards his superiors, his willingness to take risks without permission, and his tendency to exaggerate his own accomplishments. Despite his erratic behavior, Sickles managed to avoid serious consequences due to his political connections.

The documentary also examines the aftermath of Sickles' involvement in the war. After the conflict ended, he served as a diplomat and briefly as a congressman. However, he was eventually caught up in another scandal involving financial impropriety. This led to his downfall, and he spent the rest of his life embroiled in controversy and legal troubles.

Overall, this episode of Civil War Journal provides a detailed portrait of one of the most complex and controversial figures of the Civil War era. The documentary sheds light on both Sickles' positive contributions to the war effort and his dubious personal behavior. It is a fascinating examination of a man whose legacy is still debated by historians today.