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Scene on Radio

Bonus: Introducing Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD

Sep 12, 2024
Explore the surprising origins of the NYPD, where policing intersects with slavery and resistance. Discover personal stories that reveal deep emotional ties to systemic issues. Learn about the dark history of police brutality, exemplified through harrowing tales of victims like Miss Brown. Meet abolitionists like David Ruggles, who fought for freedom against oppressive forces. Uncover the complex relationship between the NYPD and marginalized communities, revealing an urgent call for justice and re-examining public safety.
45:31

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The NYPD's origins reveal a troubling history intertwined with slavery and systemic oppression that shapes modern policing issues.
  • Personal narratives, such as that of a civil rights organizer's son, illustrate the enduring struggle against policing's historical injustices and community resilience.

Deep dives

The Untold Origins of Policing

The NYPD's origins are deeply rooted in a complex history that includes connections to slavery and systemic oppression. Early policing in New York City was established during colonial times, with initial law enforcement resembling more of an informal system rather than a structured department we recognize today. This evolution highlights the transformation from watchmen with minimal authority to a more organized police force that, historically, often served to enforce racial and social control. Understanding this background is crucial to grasping the persistent issues of police brutality and discrimination faced by marginalized communities in modern America.

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