Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD

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

Aug 26, 2024

Explore the surprising origins of the NYPD, revealing how its roots are intertwined with slavery and violence. Delve into the history of rival police gangs that once roamed the city. Discover stories of everyday people who resisted authority and challenged the conventional concept of safety. This journey invites listeners to rethink the relationship between policing and community, advocating for innovative approaches to safety beyond the current system.

02:58

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The podcast explores how the NYPD's origins are steeped in control and systemic oppression rather than public safety.

It highlights the ongoing tension between community trust and police authority, urging a reevaluation of safety and justice concepts.

Deep dives

The Role of Police and Public Perception

The podcast delves into the complex relationship between the police and the communities they serve, starting with a personal anecdote that reflects societal perceptions of law enforcement. When a child expresses the belief that police keep people safe, it underscores a narrative that contrasts with the history of policing as a system of control. The speaker highlights a deep-rooted fear and skepticism towards the police, which is fueled by historical instances of violence and corruption, suggesting that the notion of safety often masks a more sinister reality. This highlights the importance of examining the true role of police within the context of societal structures and the tension between authority and community trust.

The Roots of Policing and Community Safety

3min

The police tell us they are here to protect us. But what if their original purpose was something else altogether? Peabody Award-winning host Chenjerai Kumanyika takes listeners on a journey to uncover the hidden history of the largest police force in the world – from its roots in slavery, to rival police gangs battling across the city, to everyday people who resisted every step of the way. As our society debates where policing is going, Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD explores where the police came from.

From Wondery, Crooked Media and PushBlack.

Follow Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Binge all episodes early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App or on Apple Podcasts.

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