In this thesis, the argument is made that the extent to which secrecy was employed in early twentieth-century lynching in the American Deep South is dependent on whether that secrecy provided the...Show moreIn this thesis, the argument is made that the extent to which secrecy was employed in early twentieth-century lynching in the American Deep South is dependent on whether that secrecy provided the desired sense of security from persecution to those participating in a lynch mob. Using three case studies, ranging from a highly publicized and public killing in Waco, Texas, to a group slaying of remotely situated Mexican Texans by a division of Texas Rangers, to a highly coordinated attack on a jewish factory boss in the dark of night, it is argued that either the cover of obscurity or the anonimity in a large group setting could each supply the needed sense of safety for those participating in the lynching to commit to the act fully. The circumstances which would dictate the public or secretive approach varied widely in the studied cases, yet there are some common grounds to be found among them as well.Show less
This thesis focuses on Roosevelt's role in the anti-lynching debate during the 1930s. The role of Walter White and Mary McLeod Bethune are taken into consideration. The differences between them are...Show moreThis thesis focuses on Roosevelt's role in the anti-lynching debate during the 1930s. The role of Walter White and Mary McLeod Bethune are taken into consideration. The differences between them are highlighted and compared to each other. They provide for an interesting case study.Show less
