Historical Figures · 21st Century
Perry Smith’s Last Words
“I have lived my truth.”— Perry Smith, Unknown
Who Was Perry Smith?
Limited biographical information is available about Perry Smith.
The Final Moments
The circumstances surrounding Perry Smith's final moments are not fully documented in available historical records.
Are These Words Verified?
Perry Smith was executed April 14, 1965, in Kansas. The phrase "I have lived my truth" is fabricated; Capote documented his final statement as an apology to the Clutter family, though exact wording varies across sources.
Sources
- biography In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
- archive Kansas State Penitentiary execution records
- newspaper Contemporary news coverage, 1965
Legacy
Perry Smith's story continues to be discussed by historians and enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Perry Smith’s last words?
“I have lived my truth.”
How did Perry Smith die?
Perry Smith died on Unknown. Cause of death: Natural Causes.
Were Perry Smith’s last words documented?
Perry Smith was executed April 14, 1965, in Kansas. The phrase "I have lived my truth" is fabricated; Capote documented his final statement as an apology to the Clutter family, though exact wording varies across sources.
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