John Brown was put on trial a week after his capture

Following his capture, Brown was tried with Aaron Stevens, Edwin Coppoc, Shields Green, and John Copeland. Brown answered when asked if the defendants have legal representation:

"Virginians, at the time I was seized, I did not request money. I didn't request that my life be spared. I was given the guarantee that I would have a fair trial from the governor of the state of Virginia, but I will never be able to do so. Without this charade of a trial, you can have my blood whenever you want it. I haven't had any advice, and I can't get any from anyone. I'm ready to accept my fate. I don't take a test. I ask you not to make fun of a trial or disrespect anyone; just do what your conscience compels you to do, otherwise, cowardice would push you to do it. I again want your pardon for this pretend trial."

Brown later entered a not guilty plea. Days later, he was hanged after being found guilty of murder, inciting the rebellion of slaves, and treason against the government. John Wilkes Booth, who would eventually kill Abraham Lincoln, was present at the execution as a militiaman.

Abraham Lincoln, who was present at the time in Kansas, claimed that John Brown had been put to death for treason against a State. He agreed that slavery was abhorrent, yet cannot disagree. That does not excuse violence, murder, or other violent crimes. John Brown had nothing to gain by thinking he was right.