America's history of assassinations and political violence
Jul 16, 2024
26:17
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Delving into America's dark history of assassinations and political violence, from Lincoln to Reagan. Centering on the legacy of political violence and its impact on the nation's history. Exploring parallels between past events and the potential future outcomes. Discussing contrasting views on political violence in the 1960s and present day. Reflecting on America's involvement in international assassinations and the impact on public opinion.
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Quick takeaways
Political violence in the U.S. has influenced historical events with long-lasting consequences.
Failed attempts at political assassinations can still impact the political landscape significantly.
Deep dives
History of Political Assassinations in the United States
Political violence and assassinations have long been part of American history, with over 40% of American presidents targeted by assassins. The 1960s witnessed a series of political assassinations, creating a shift in American politics regarding such violence. While there has been a relative calm since the 1970s in direct attacks on presidents, there have been ascertained plots and failed attempts, indicating an ongoing threat.
The Impact of Assassinations and Assassination Attempts
Assassins often have grand visions but lack control over the outcomes of their actions. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand exemplifies how such acts can have unforeseen, far-reaching consequences, leading to significant historical events. Despite failed attempts, the political landscape can be influenced, as seen in the aftermath of attempted assassinations like that of Ronald Reagan.
Conspiracy Theories and Media Influence
Assassinations and attempts prompt the emergence of conspiracy theories, perpetuated by the media and social platforms. The abundance of videos and information available today complicates the discourse, fueling divisive interpretations. The role of media, deepfakes, and information dissemination in shaping public perceptions of political violence and assassinations is crucial in the current environment.
At this point, it's still unclear what motivated Thomas Matthew Crooks to climb a nearby roof with an AR-15-style rifle and attempt to shoot former U.S. president Donald Trump. But he is far from the first person to make an attempt on the life of an American president. From the high-profile assassinations of Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy to attempted assassinations of Ronald Reagan and Theodore Roosevelt, acts of politically motivated murder — whether successful or otherwise — are often major turning points in the nation's history.
Centre College associate professor Jonathon L. Earle walks us through the legacy of political violence in the United States, and what that history could teach us about what could happen next.
For transcripts of this series, please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/frontburner/transcripts
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