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Scott, H. L. (1814-1886) General orders - No. 281.

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08954 Author/Creator: Scott, H. L. (1814-1886) Place Written: Tacubaya, Mexico Type: Printed document signed Date: 8 September 1847 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 22 x 15.5 cm. Order a Copy

Proceedings of a Court Martial for 29 soldiers accused & convicted "of desertion to the enemy" during the Mexican War. The men, all privates, all pleaded not guilty, all were sentenced "to be hanged by the neck until dead." Three, who deserted before war began, and four others, had their sentences commuted to fifty lashes and being branded. Another was remitted because his son, "remained faithful to his colors." The remaining men were executed on 10 September 1847.

Henry Lee Scott was the son-in-law of General Winfield Scott, and served as his aide-de-camp during the Mexican War. Served as Colonel and Inspector General of the United States Regular Army during the first year of the Civil War, then retired from service.

Scott, H. L. (Henry Lee), 1814-1886
National Expansion and Reform, 1815-1860
Mexican War
Latin and South America
Global History and Civics
Foreign Affairs
Court Martials and Courts of Inquiry
Desertion
Military History
Military Law
Death Penalty
Age of Jackson

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