Part Two: The German Abolitionists: How the 48ers Joined the American Abolitionists
Sep 4, 2024
auto_awesome
Cody Johnston, a commentator, dives into the fascinating intersection of German revolutionaries and American abolitionism. He unpacks the legacy of the 48ers in Texas, tracing their contributions and community-building efforts against slavery. The conversation highlights the role of German-language newspapers and the cultural significance of Cincinnati as an abolitionist hub. Johnston also reflects on the radical journey of figures like August Willich, illustrating the solidarity between immigrant groups and the black community in their struggle for freedom.
The podcast examines how German revolutionaries known as the 48ers played a significant role in the American abolitionist movement.
Margaret and Cody Johnston discuss the intertwined histories of political activism and immigration among German and American abolitionists.
The episode highlights the unique contributions and perspectives of the German abolitionists in shaping the fight against slavery in America.
Deep dives
The Unlikely Assassins
In the summer of 1975, two women attempted to assassinate President Gerald Ford in a shocking twist of fate. The first assailant was Lynette 'Squeaky' Fromme, a 26-year-old woman closely associated with Charles Manson, known for her radical beliefs and fervent loyalty to the infamous cult leader. The second was Sarah Jean Moore, a middle-aged housewife with ties to the FBI, who aimed to make a statement by acting covertly. These two women, from vastly different backgrounds, engaged in a violent act that reflected the tumultuous political climate of the era and marked a rare instance of female involvement in assassination attempts against a sitting U.S. president.
The Context of the Attacks
The assassination attempts occurred within a brief 17-day period and less than 90 miles apart, indicating a surge of unrest and societal upheaval during the 1970s. This period was characterized by a growing counterculture movement and a sense of disillusionment with the government, driven by events such as the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Both women’s actions can be seen as a manifestation of this widespread discontent, as they sought to express their frustrations through radical means. Their stories highlight the unique intersection of gender, politics, and violence during a critical moment in American history.
Lynette Fromme's Motivations
Lynette Fromme's attempt on President Ford's life was fueled by her deep-seated loyalty to Charles Manson and his ideology, viewing it as a way to draw attention to her cause. Her act was not merely a reflection of personal vendetta but rather an attempt to reignite the revolutionary fervor associated with the Manson family. Despite her failure to harm the President, her actions underscored the influence of Manson's teachings on his followers. Fromme's radicalization and her willingness to act in such a drastic manner exemplify how ideological beliefs can drive individuals to extreme actions.
Sarah Jean Moore: The Undercover Operative
In contrast to Fromme, Sarah Jean Moore's attempt was informed by her undercover work with the FBI, positioning her as a complex figure in this narrative. While she sought to carry out an assassination, her motivations appear to be more about making a radical statement against the political system rather than mere ideological fanaticism. Moore's background as a housewife entering the realm of political terrorism demonstrates the fluidity of identity and role that women could assume in activism during this time. The duality of her character brings an additional layer of intrigue to the story, creating a dialogue about the lengths individuals will go in pursuit of political change, regardless of their societal roles.
A Reflection on Violence and Feminism
These assassination attempts highlight a broader theme of the intersection of violence and feminist movements during the 1970s. While these women are frequently sidelined in discussions of political violence, their actions disrupt traditional narratives about gender roles and activism. Their involvement raises questions about radical feminism, where individuals may feel compelled to resort to violence as a means of agency and expression. Ultimately, the actions of Fromme and Moore reflect the complexities of resistance, illustrating how deeply personal and political motivations can intertwine, leading to extraordinary and often tragic consequences.
