Stuff You Missed in History Class SYMHC Classics: Palmer Raids Pt. 2
May 31, 2025
In this thrilling exploration, the relentless Palmer Raids of 1919 are scrutinized, revealing brutal government crackdowns on suspected radicals. Thousands were unjustly detained under horrifying conditions, leading to public outcry and a fight for civil liberties. The rise of the ACLU is highlighted as a response to these injustices, shedding light on the implications of government overreach. Personal testimonies paint a vivid picture of the era's climate of fear and its enduring impact on society and civil rights.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Violent Russian People's House Raid
- The Department of Justice raided the Russian People's House violently, beating hundreds and destroying property.
- Many innocent people were arrested and seriously injured, sparking protests at Madison Square Garden.
Bridgeport Arrests and Torture
- In Bridgeport, CT, 63 men were arrested during a meeting and held in terrible jail conditions.
- They were beaten, threatened, and confined in unbearably hot punishment rooms.
Mass Detention in Detroit
- In Detroit, 800 men attending Communist Party events were arrested and held in poor conditions for days.
- Many had no beds, no food for hours, and crowded access to limited sanitary facilities.