The significance of John B. Floyd in the context of the 14th Amendment

John B. Floyd, a trader and key figure during the Civil War, plays a central role in understanding the motivations behind the drafting and ratification of the 14th Amendment, specifically Section 3. While Floyd himself died before the amendment was ratified, his actions and treachery set the stage for the creation of Section 3. This section of the amendment is not just about the Civil War, but also about individuals who betrayed their oaths of office to the Constitution. Floyd's use of his position as Secretary of War to stage an insurrection against the lawful inauguration of Abraham Lincoln made him a significant figure in the fight for preserving and defending the Constitution. By highlighting Floyd's actions, the podcast emphasizes that Section 3 is not limited to the Civil War era, but has relevance in contemporary situations, such as the events of January 6, 2021.