SKU: 73558948602

Fortune's Fool: The Life of John Wilkes Booth

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Fortune's Fool: The Life of John Wilkes BoothWith a single shot from a pistol small enough to conceal in his hand, John Wilkes Booth catapulted into history on the night of April 14, 1865. The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln stunned a nation that was just emerging from the chaos and calamity of the Civil War, and the president's untimely death altered the trajectory of postwar history. But to those who knew Booth, the event was even more shocking for no one could have imagined that

With a single shot from a pistol small enough to conceal in his hand, John Wilkes Booth catapulted into history on the night of April 14, 1865. The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln stunned a nation that was just emerging from the chaos and calamity of the Civil War, and the president's untimely death altered the trajectory of postwar history. But to those who knew Booth, the event was even more shocking--for no one could have imagined that this fantastically gifted actor and well-liked man could commit such an atrocity.

In Fortune's Fool, Terry Alford provides the first comprehensive look at the life of an enigmatic figure whose life has been overshadowed by his final, infamous act. Tracing Booth's story from his uncertain childhood in Maryland, characterized by a difficult relationship with his famous actor father, to his successful acting career on stages across the country, Alford offers a nuanced picture of Booth as a public figure, performer, and deeply troubled man. Despite the fame and success that attended Booth's career--he was billed at one point as "the youngest star in the world"--he found himself consumed by the Confederate cause and the desire to help the South win its independence. Alford reveals the tormented path that led Booth to conclude, as the Confederacy collapsed in April 1865, that the only way to revive the South and punish the North for the war would be to murder Lincoln--whatever the cost to himself or others. The textured and compelling narrative gives new depth to the familiar events at Ford's Theatre and the aftermath that followed, culminating in Booth's capture and death at the hands of Union soldiers 150 years ago.

Based on original research into government archives, historical libraries, and family records, Fortune's Fool offers the definitive portrait of John Wilkes Booth.


Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Published: 03/01/2018
ISBN: 9780190697709
Pages: 464
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 8.90h x 5.70w x 1.30d
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SKU: 73558948602

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Amazon Customer
Fort Morgan, US
★★★★★ 3
Decent
Color: Black, Size: X-Large
Smells strange, assuming its the dye. Good fit, although the arms are quite long. Also had some strange stitch going across the left breast area that seemed like a mistake and was an eye sore. Good value overall for a quick put together suit.
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Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2025
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Veronica
West Palm Beach, US
★★★★★ 5
perfect fit, excellent quality
Color: Navy Blue, Size: XX-Large
Fit perfect true to size great quality loved it on my husband
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Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2026
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stanley h.
Fort Morgan, US
★★★★★ 5
Nice Suit For The Price
This suit was a time-saver! My wife ordered a tux that wasn't going to make it for a formal occasion, so this was ordered and came within three days. It was a good thing she purchased 2, in case of sizing errors. The extra large pants worked, but sizing down to the large jacket & vest made the best combination/fit. We didn't go with the blue/black bow tie & flower it came with, but may for another event. However, being able to work interchangeably at a low price was rewarding!! Thought to add comments that the look of this suit is pleasing (though it's not the best thread). The workmanship gives it a 5 and even greater. The compliments were many. I do suggest using a good steam iron that will eliminate the wrinkles, without creating unwanted creases, while barely touching the suit; but, definitely follow the creases in the pants leg.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2025
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Peggy Cole
Bozeman, US
★★★★★ 5
Disappointed
Size: XX-Large, Color: Light Grey, Size: XX-Large, Color: Light Grey
Overview of the Purchase Experience I recently ordered a 3-piece suit for my significant other, who is quite tall at 6’8”. I was excited about this purchase, hoping it would be a stylish addition to his wardrobe. However, upon receiving the suit, I encountered several issues that I feel compelled to share. Color Discrepancy One of the most disappointing aspects of this order was the color inconsistency. The suit was supposed to be a cohesive set, but it arrived with two different colors. This mismatch not only detracted from the overall aesthetic but also made it difficult to wear as a complete outfit. When purchasing a suit, especially a three-piece one that includes trousers, a vest, and a jacket, one expects all pieces to match in color and style. Unfortunately, this was not the case here. Quality Concerns In addition to the color issues, I found the quality of the fabric and construction to be subpar. The material felt cheap and did not have the durability or elegance one would expect from a suit. The stitching appeared uneven in places, and there were loose threads that raised concerns about its longevity. A well-made suit should exude quality and craftsmanship; however, this product fell short on both counts. Fit Issues Related to Height Given my significant other’s height (6’8”), finding suits that fit well can be challenging. While I cannot recall his exact weight at this moment, it’s important to note that tall individuals often require tailored fits or specific sizing options that accommodate their stature. Unfortunately, even if the colors had matched and the quality had been better, I doubt this suit would have fit him properly without additional alterations. Conclusion Overall, my experience with this 3-piece suit has been disappointing due to color discrepancies and poor quality construction. For anyone considering purchasing this item for someone tall or for themselves, I would recommend looking elsewhere unless you are prepared for potential issues with fit and appearance. Peggy Cole FabFashiion not approved
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Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2024
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Jennifer Lee
Chelsea, US
★★★★★ 5
Excellent Affordable Suit for Special Occasions
Size: Large, Color: Black, Size: Large, Color: Black
Bought this for prom and was very happy with how it looked. The jacket is a nice medium weight and looked great on. We ordered a large, which was slightly big, but after having the suit tailored it fit perfectly. My son received many compliments and looked amazing.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2026

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