Patrick J. Whelan
Patrick James Whelan was a tailor and suspected Fenian sympathizer executed following the year 1869 assassination of Canadian journalist and politician Thomas D'Arcy McGee.
He maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, but the government needed somebody to blame, and although the evidence against Whelan was entirely circumstantial, he was "the perfect candidate". Questions about his guilt continue to be voiced, as his trial was "marred" by political interference, dubious legal procedures, allegations of bribing witnesses and easily discredited testimony.
Read more about Patrick J. Whelan: Life, Killing of Thomas D'Arcy McGee, Trial and Execution, Verdict, Execution, Legacy
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