1. America Struggles with Post War Issues
How are civil liberties attacked in the post-war era?

2. Red Scare Widens
Communism in Russia causes a panic in US since Communists (aka Reds) called for a worldwide communist revolution
Due to Anarchist bombing campaigns, many Americans were fearful & did not see a difference between the two groups

3. No bombs or evidence of a revolution are found
Palmer Raids
Atty. Gen Mitchell Palmer claims to have evidence of a massive communist bombing campaign to overthrow govt.
Palmer & B of I agent J. Edgar Hoover jailed/deported thousands w/o trials
No bombs or evidence of a revolution are found
Discuss: Why were the Palmer raids a dark chapter in US History?

4. Post War Strikes 1. Boston police strike for more pay
Mass Gov Calvin Coolidge states can’t strike – public safety
2. US Steel Workers strike for more pay
US Steel labels strikers “communist agitators” – strike ends
3. Coal Miners led by John L. Lewis strike for pay/work conditions
Lewis able to gain sympathy from public, saying “we can’t fight the owners & the govt” – but overall unions down in 20s

5. Immigrant Backlash
Sacco & Vanzetti case involved two Italian immigrants accused of robbery & murder (both men were alleged anarchists)
Both found guilty & executed despite no eye-witnesses & both men having alibis
VQ: What was Vanzetti’s alibi? Why wasn’t his alibi believed and how may the judge have played a role in their conviction?
Discuss: Why do you think Sacco and Vanzetti were convicted and executed?

6. 1921: Congress passes the Emergency Quota Act
Establishes maximum # of people by country that can enter US
KKK sees another rise membership b/c nativist sentiment

7. Post War Racism
Black/White tensions rise in cities, competition for jobs & housing
1. Chicago: black swimmer killed, police fail to arrest culprit, riot breaks out, Ntl Guard called in
Discuss: Why do you think the Chicago race riots occurred and what may result in this violence?
2. Rosewood, FL: white woman accuses black man of rape, whites attack town, blacks fight back, KKK burns down town

8. ADL: Fights discrimination for Jews & other immigrants
Protecting Rights
As a result of Palmer Raids, Red Scare & Nativism two organizations form to help w/ civil rights
ADL: Fights discrimination for Jews & other immigrants
ACLU: Fought to have those arrested under Sedition Acts & Palmer Raids freed from jail