White House in Mourning

Eight U.S. presidencies have ended in death. This historical overview covers the deaths and attendant mourning and funeral rituals for each of the presidents who died in office. The text provides the historical context of the events, the effects of the transition of power, as well as a history of presidential protection and health care. Conspiracy theories are reviewed, as well as the fate of the associated assassins. For each president, there is an autobiographical overview, health history, and details of the final illness or murder. The story of each president's state funeral is covered in detail, including the aftermath, the response of the families, the nation, and the world. The book also includes an appendix of laws concerning assaults on the president, office regulations for funerals, and photographs from the Library of Congress, presidential libraries, historical societies, and the author's own collection.