American History Tellers History Daily: The Wall Street Bombing
Sep 16, 2024
On September 16, 1920, a devastating bomb explosion rocks New York’s financial district, claiming 30 lives. The chaos unveils the rise of anarchist movements, linked to a notorious robbery that stirs fierce tensions and crackdowns by law enforcement. As the investigation unfolds, the grim fate of workers is uncovered, connecting the attack to infamous figures like Sacco and Vanzetti. The podcast dives into the historical context, the impact of the bombing on American terrorism, and gives a sneak peek into Harriet Tubman’s remarkable escape.
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1919 Bombings
- In 1919, Senator Thomas Hardwick survived a mail bomb attack, sparking a series of similar attacks on prominent figures.
- These attacks, targeting those who opposed anarchism, highlighted the growing tension between the established order and the anarchist movement.
Anarchist Motivation
- Anarchists aimed to overthrow capitalism through violent means, believing it was inherently unfair and on the verge of collapse.
- They sought a fairer distribution of wealth without government intervention, targeting those who upheld existing institutions.
Braintree Robbery
- In 1920, two men were murdered during a payroll robbery in Braintree, Massachusetts.
- The subsequent arrest of Sacco and Vanzetti, based on flimsy evidence, fueled anarchist outrage and was seen as another act of targeted persecution.