Article Title: Newly Discovered Documents Show President Biden’s Ancestor Received Pardon from Lincoln
In a surprising revelation, recently discovered documents in the National Archives have unveiled that President Biden’s great-great-grandfather, Moses J. Robinette, received a pardon from President Lincoln during the Civil War. This historical incident sheds light on an intriguing chapter in the Biden family history.
According to The Washington Post, the incident occurred on March 12, 1864, when Robinette was involved in a fight with another Union Army civilian employee near the Rappahannock River in Virginia. The altercation resulted in the other man, John J. Alexander, sustaining knife wounds, and Robinette was subsequently charged with attempted murder. He was then imprisoned in Florida.
However, Robinette’s friends, who happened to be officers in the U.S. Army, took it upon themselves to petition President Lincoln directly, urging him to overturn the harsh sentence. They argued that Robinette had acted in self-defense and that the punishment did not fit the circumstances of the altercation. Furthermore, they emphasized Robinette’s unwavering support for the Union cause and his opposition to those seeking to dismantle the government.
The petition reached the desk of West Virginia Sen. Waitman T. Willey, who endorsed it and forwarded the request to the White House. After a thorough review of the case, President Lincoln agreed with the arguments presented and granted Robinette a pardon. The document, dated September 1, 1864, bears Lincoln’s signature and reads, “Pardon for unexecuted part of punishment. A. Lincoln.”
It is worth noting that President Biden’s great-great-grandfather went on to live until 1903, leaving behind a lasting legacy within his family. However, the White House has yet to respond to inquiries regarding whether President Biden was aware of this incident in his family history.
This revelation adds a fascinating dimension to President Biden’s ancestry, showcasing a personal connection to one of the most significant figures in American history, President Lincoln. It reminds us of the complex stories that intertwine within the fabric of our nation’s past.
Anders Hagstrom, a reporter for Digital, covering national politics and major breaking news events, contributed to this report. For more updates on the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and additional political content, stay subscribed to Digital.
