Jefferson Davis was held in prison for two years, but never stood trial for treason

After being taken prisoner by Union soldiers in 1865, Jefferson Davis was transported to Fortress Monroe in Hampton, Virginia, where he was held captive for the following two years. It's also one of the interesting facts about Jefferson Davis. General Nelson A. Miles, the fort's commander, gave the order to have irons fastened on his ankles.

Davis was only permitted the Bible and no other books. Despite the attending doctor's warnings that his life was in danger as he grew sicker, this treatment was prolonged for a few months until late autumn, when he was ultimately moved into better accommodations. Midway through 1866, General Miles was reassigned, and Davis's care got better.

Thomas Pratt, a former governor of Maryland, represented Jefferson Davis when he was charged with treason while he was incarcerated. The idea of holding treason trials, particularly against Jefferson Davis, was heavily debated in 1865. The House of Representatives voted 105-19 in favor of such a trial against Davis on June 11, 1866, despite the fact that there was no agreement within President Johnson's cabinet to do so. There were no treason trials against anyone, despite Davis' desire for one for himself, as it was believed they would likely fail and obstruct attempts at reconciliation. Davis was released from prison after two years on $100,000 bail.