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Today in History: Alderman Benjamin F. Lewis Murdered in Office

2/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 28, 1963, Chicago alderman Benjamin F. Lewis was murdered in his ward office shortly after being reelected. The assassination remains unsolved, raising questions about the political climate and safety of public officials in the city during that era. Lewis's death marked a significant and troubling moment in Chicago's political history.

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Story summary

On February 28, 1963, Chicago alderman Benjamin F. Lewis was murdered in his ward office shortly after being reelected. The assassination remains unsolved, raising questions about the political climate and safety of public officials in the city during that era. Lewis's death marked a significant and troubling moment in Chicago's political history.