Greeneville in Greene County, Tennessee — The American South (East South Central)

A Profile in Courage

Photographed By Mike Wintermantel, October 18, 2023

1. A Profile in Courage Marker

Inscription. Senator Edmund G. Ross of Kansas, on the eve of the senatorial vote in the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson, exhibited his great love for the democratic process when in reply to extreme pressure he stated, "I do not recognize your right to demand that I shall vote either for or against conviction. I have taken an oath to do impartial justice... And I trust I shall have the courage and honesty to vote according to the dictates of my judgment and for the highest good of my country."
His courage and honesty dictated that he cast the deciding vote of "not guilty." this act of conscience, on May 16, 1868, cost him his political career but reserved for him an illustrious place of honor in the role of preserving constitutional government.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Government & Politics. A significant historical date for this entry is May 16, 1868.

Location. 36° 9.768′ N, 82° 49.765′ W. Marker is in Greeneville, Tennessee, in Greene County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of North College Street and East Depot Street. Located inside the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, near the Tailor Shop exhibit. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 101 N College St, Greeneville TN 37743, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. "I Have Wrestled With Poverty" (a few steps from this marker); The Heart of the Household

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(a few steps from this marker); An Early Home (within shouting distance of this marker); Andrew Johnson (within shouting distance of this marker); Margaret Johnson Patterson Bartlett / Andrew Johnson (within shouting distance of this marker); The Original Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Olde Greene County Gaol (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Benjamin Lundy (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Greeneville.

Photographed By Mike Wintermantel, October 18, 2023

2. A Profile in Courage Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on October 19, 2023. It was originally submitted on October 19, 2023, by Mike Wintermantel of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This page has been viewed 62 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 19, 2023, by Mike Wintermantel of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.