Chasing Shadows Chasing Shadows Chapter 5 The Blood of Martyrs
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Dec 14, 2023 
Stuart Wexler, an author and historian specializing in religious terrorism in the U.S., dives deep into the dark history of extremist movements. He discusses the critical role of CORE and the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party during the Civil Rights era. Wexler highlights the sinister tactics of Sam Bowers and the Klan, including the Mount Zion Church arson to lure activists. He also uncovers the complicity of Sheriff Lawrence Rainey in the notorious Mississippi murders and explores the alarming escalation of violence leading to federal involvement.
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Freedom Summer’s High-Stakes Goal
- The Mississippi Freedom Summer aimed to register Black voters and prove their willingness to vote amid extreme violence.
- CORE and the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party targeted Mississippi as the most dangerous state for civil rights activism.
Church Arson Used As A Lure
- Mount Zion Baptist Church was burned as a provocation designed to draw activists into Mississippi early.
- Activists suspected the arson was a ploy leading to a much worse planned attack.
Bowers As Tactical Mastermind
- Sam Bowers, Grand Wizard of the White Knights, combined Klan leadership with Christian Identity ideology.
- His Navy service and tactical planning made him an adept planner of multi-stage violent operations.
