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Today in History: First Attempt to Assassinate a Sitting US President

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 30, 1835, Richard Lawrence attempted to assassinate President Andrew Jackson outside the U.S. Capitol, marking the first known assassination attempt on a sitting U.S. president. Both of Lawrence's pistols misfired, and he was quickly subdued by the crowd. Found not guilty by reason of insanity, he spent the rest of his life in asylums.

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Story summary

On January 30, 1835, Richard Lawrence attempted to assassinate President Andrew Jackson outside the U.S. Capitol, marking the first known assassination attempt on a sitting U.S. president. Both of Lawrence's pistols misfired, and he was quickly subdued by the crowd. Found not guilty by reason of insanity, he spent the rest of his life in asylums.