I think if you review some court records you will find many instances of prisoners being pardoned for humane reasons--whether they were political prisoners or not. Dr. Mudd's actions during the yellow fever epidemic saved the lives of dozens, if not hundreds, of people--both in the prison and on the island. Yellow fever was widespread during the mid-1800s, and it killed thousands--probably tens of thousands. Although not my favorite President, I laud President Johnson for his recognization of Dr. Mudd's skills and actions and that he rewarded Dr. Mudd by pardoning him.