Stuff You Missed in History Class SYMHC Classics: Palmer Raids Pt. 1
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May 24, 2025 Explore the tension in post-World War I America, where fears of communism ignited government action against perceived radicals. Discover the chilling details of bomb plots that fueled public panic and prompted the Palmer Raids, targeting immigrants involved in socialism and labor movements. Delve into the controversial Sedition Act and the harsh consequences on civil liberties. Learn about A. Mitchell Palmer's rise amidst this volatile climate and the anarchists linked to violent attacks that shook the nation.
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Post-WWI Red Scare Context
- Post-WWI America faced intense social unrest and fear of Communist revolution inspired by the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution.\n- The Red Scare fueled paranoia about radicals aiming to overthrow the U.S. government.
Kaplan Discovers Bomb Parcels
- Postal clerk Charles Kaplan discovered 16 suspicious parcels with insufficient postage marked "Novelty Samples."\n- These parcels matched descriptions of bombs sent to prominent figures, exposing a serial bombing threat.
June 1919 Bombing Attack
- On June 2, 1919, anarchist Carlo Valdinocci's bomb exploded at Attorney General Palmer's home, killing Valdinocci and damaging nearby residences.\n- Simultaneous bombings across the U.S. targeted judges, politicians, and businessmen, killing a watchman.