Glossary

Panic of 1857

a nationwide financial crisis following an economic boom after the Mexican-American War, California Gold Rush, and rapid growth of railroads; particularly affected the Midwest.

Panic of 1873

a financial crisis that triggered severe economic depression in the United States that exposed the vulnerability of the post-Civil War economy and led to widespread bank failures, unemployment, and social unrest

paramilitary

organized similarly to a military force but is of an unofficial force

Partisan

describing a person or policy who is strongly in favor of one political party over another.

Passed the bar

A lawyer’s successful completion of all the requirements to practice law. These requirements have changed throughout history.

Patriotic Society

A political club with influence in the state of Virginia.

Pension

a regular payment made during a person’s retirement from an investment fund to which that person or their employer has contributed during their working life.

Per curiam

refers to a (generally brief) decision attributable to an entire court, rather than to a specific judge. A per curiam opinion can resolve cases promptly, often without oral argument.

Peripheral

relating to or situated on the edge of something

Persecution

the cruel and unfair treatment of a person or group, especially because of their religious beliefs