Lincoln Assassinated at Ford's Theatre — Reading Comprehension

On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln went to Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. He wanted to relax after the long and hard Civil War. President Lincoln was known for his courage and strong leadership. The people of the United States were hopeful for a peaceful future.

While Lincoln watched the play, a man named John Wilkes Booth entered the theatre. Booth was an actor but did not agree with President Lincoln’s ideas. He wanted to stop Lincoln from bringing the country back together. Booth made a plan to hurt the president.

At about 10:15 p.m., Booth walked quietly into the President’s box and shot Lincoln. The people in the theatre were shocked. Booth jumped onto the stage and yelled, "Sic semper tyrannis!" This is Latin for “Thus always to tyrants.” He escaped from the theatre, but many people chased after him.

Doctors tried to help President Lincoln. He was moved to a house across the street. Sadly, Lincoln died the next morning, on April 15, 1865. The news spread quickly. Many Americans felt sad and worried for the nation.

Lincoln’s death was a turning point in American history. People honored his bravery and his wish for unity. The government worked hard to bring the country together again.

Interesting Fact: The chair where Lincoln sat at Ford’s Theatre is now in a museum.

Who was president in 1865?

Where did the assassination happen?

Who shot President Lincoln?

Why did Booth attack Lincoln?

What did Booth shout on stage?

What happened after Lincoln was shot?

Lincoln survived the shooting. True or false?

What does "bravery" mean?