The Daily Signal Victor Davis Hanson: The Stain of George Floyd Riots on America, Five Years Later
May 30, 2025
Victor Davis Hanson reflects on the fifth anniversary of George Floyd's death, dissecting the catastrophic aftermath, including $2 billion in damages and iconic structures destroyed. He challenges narratives around systemic racism in the wake of riots, examining their impact on crime and community safety. The discussion also delves into the repercussions for universities and societal attitudes toward race relations. Finally, he critiques the motivations behind anti-racist initiatives, calling for sober solutions in light of the chaos that followed.
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George Floyd Incident Details
- George Floyd was a career felon involved in passing counterfeit bills and was under drug influence.
- Officer Chauvin kneeled on Floyd's neck, sparking protests and Chauvin's conviction for murder.
Extent of Floyd Riots' Damage
- The Floyd riots caused massive destruction including burning precincts and a federal courthouse.
- A mob even tried to breach the White House perimeter during the unrest.
Misconceptions About Police Violence
- The riots were fueled by rumors and misinformation, especially the false idea that police were systematically killing unarmed black men.
- Data showed very few black males were killed or stopped disproportionately by police in that year.