Andrew Johnson Document Signed as President for a Conditional Pardon

Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8.5 x 11, September 21, 1867. President Johnson authorizes and directs the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to "a Warrant for the conditional pardon of Michael Harrington." In very good to fine condition, with scattered light soiling, and light show-through from an old mounting remnant on the back left edge.

Following the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson issued thousands of pardons to former Confederates as part of his broader policy of Reconstruction and national reunification—this is likely one such example. While early proclamations in 1865 required many Southerners—particularly those of wealth or influence—to apply individually for clemency, Johnson frequently granted such requests, restoring civil rights and property (excluding enslaved persons).

By 1867, amid growing political conflict with Congress over the direction of Reconstruction, these pardons had become controversial, with critics arguing they enabled former Confederates to quickly regain power in the South.