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OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 1687

The Martyred Presidents

19011 minUnited States

Synopsis

A mourning figure sits beneath images of Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield and William McKinley. A concluding tableau places an assassin before Justice, turning presidential remembrance into an allegory.

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Video edition: Wikimedia Commons
Original language: No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: not identified.
This copy runs: 1:06
Subtitles: No subtitle track in this language

No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: not identified. No subtitle track in this language.

Languages and subtitles

No subtitle track in this language

Wikimedia Commons · Edwin S. Porter · Public domain

DirectorsEdwin S. Porter

Historical context

Edison promoted the short as a closing image for programs about McKinley's funeral. Its changing portraits recall the visual practices of magic-lantern presentations.

Sources and availability

General references identify the work and its copy. A reference beside an editorial section is linked to the claims checked in that section.

Wikipedia — film reference Wikidata — film identity and credits

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

The public-domain references concern the original films in the United States. Rights can differ for other countries, editions, restorations, music or translations. Sources are listed on each film page.

Availability checked on September 22, 2026.

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