Brown; John;1800 - 1859;American abolitionist who believed armed insurrection was the only way to overthrow the institution of slavery in the United States. He led an unsuccessful raid on the federal armory at Harpers Ferry that ended with his capture. Brown's trial resulted in his conviction and a sentence of death by hanging. "The Last Moments of John Brown".Painting; c.1884; by Thomas Hovenden (1840-1895).Oil on canvas; 117 x 96 cm.San Francisco; de Young Memorial Museum.