May, 1856 Preston Brooks

Protect Cousin • 9999999

Attack Charles Sumner with a cane like it occurred in 1856 when Congressman Preston Brooks attacked him on the floor of the U.S. Senate and beat him unconscious. Brooks attacked Sumner with a cane in response to a speech Sumner gave that criticized pro-slavery forces, including Brooks' cousin, Senator Andrew Butler. The caning shocked the nation, showing the growing violence and tensions over slavery.