Alva Review-Courier -

On Dec. 4, 1837, the speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives, John Wilson, attacked fellow representative, Joseph J. Anthony, on the floor of that legislative body while it was in session.

Wilson stabbed Anthony, whose attempts to defend himself were fruitless. Likewise, the efforts of another representative who tried to intervene were unsuccessful. Anthony died immediately.

Members of the House of Representatives expelled Wilson from the assembly. He was subsequently arrested for murder. Because of his political stature, however, Wilson was freed on bail pending trial.

Wilson’s attor...