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Today in History: Andrew Johnson impeached as first U.S. president

2/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 24, 1868, the U.S. House of Representatives impeached President Andrew Johnson, marking him as the first president to face such action. The impeachment stemmed from allegations of violating the Tenure of Office Act by attempting to remove Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. This conflict highlighted the tensions between Johnson and the Republican-dominated Congress.

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Story summary

On February 24, 1868, the U.S. House of Representatives impeached President Andrew Johnson, marking him as the first president to face such action. The impeachment stemmed from allegations of violating the Tenure of Office Act by attempting to remove Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. This conflict highlighted the tensions between Johnson and the Republican-dominated Congress.