[Non-Sequitur]

Rather than get into an argument of what 'is' is I will point out that they two were arguing about the U.S. government hanging anyone for treason. Hanging someone for treason against a state is almost too ludicrous for words.

[Aurelius]

"Hanging someone for treason against a state is almost too ludicrous for words."

Since 1865, perhaps, but not before.

[Aurelius]

Article III, Section. 3.

Clause 1: Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort.