On Good Friday 1865, actor-turned assassin John Wilkes Booth not only ended a great American life in progress, but made his victim -- Abraham Lincoln -- seem exponentially greater in death. Ever since the 16th president died, nine hours after Booth fired his fatal shot, American presidents have been judged against the myth that replaced the man. The savior of the union, great emancipator and martyr of liberty has proven an all but impossible act to follow.
