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The Self-Defense Demonstration
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Ironic TwistsMay 01, 2026

The Self-Defense Demonstration

The Self-Defense Demonstration In June 1871, Ohio lawyer Clement Vallandigham was defending a man accused of murder. His theory: the victim shot himself while drawing his own pistol. To prove it, Vallandigham reenacted the motion with a loaded gun. He shot himself in the abdomen. He died the next day. His client was acquitted.

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