This week on Hashtag History, we are discussing the Caning of Charles Sumner, also oftentimes referred to as the Brooks-Sumner Affair. On May 22, 1856, during a debate in the Senate chamber regarding slavery, Representative of South Carolina Preston Brooks (who was a huge supporter of slavery) picked up a cane and beat Senator from Massachusetts Charles Sumner nearly to death on the Senate floor. In fact, Sumner was beaten so severely that the walking cane that was used to club him would end up shattering. Sumner would not return to the Senate for THREE YEARS as he recovered from his injuries. The public beating of a Senator on the Senate Floor was absolutely mind-blowing and is symbolic of the civil tension regarding slavery during the pre-Civil War period. Follow Hashtag History on Instagram @hashtaghistory_podcast for all of the pictures mentioned in this episode. Citations for all sources can be located on our website at www.HashtagHistory-Pod.com. You can also check out our website for super cute merch! You can now sponsor a cocktail and get a shout-out on air! Just head to www.buymeacoffee.com/hashtaghistory or head to the Support tab on our website! You can locate us on www.Patreon.com/hashtaghistory where you can donate $1 a month to our Books and Booze Supply. All of your support goes a long ways and we are endlessly grateful! To show our gratitude, all Patreon Supporters receive an automatic 15% OFF all merchandise in our merchandise store, bonus Hashtag Hangouts episodes, a shoutout on social media, and stickers! Check out Macy’s delicious wine here → https://glnk.io/rpln/hashtaghistory-podcast #macyswineshop THANKS FOR LISTENING!