Political Political Assassinations Assassinations

Why does this occur in Why does this occur in American Society? American Society?

The TargetsThe Targets Many people both foreign and native tend to perceive the United States as a Many people both foreign and native tend to perceive the United States as a

country prone to political violence and assassination.country prone to political violence and assassination.

Nine American Presidents - Andrew Jackson in 1835, Abraham Lincoln in 1865, Nine American Presidents - Andrew Jackson in 1835, Abraham Lincoln in 1865, James Garfield in 1881, William McKinley in 1901 Harry S. Truman in 1950, James Garfield in 1881, William McKinley in 1901 Harry S. Truman in 1950, John F. Kennedy in 1963, Richard Nixon in 1974, Gerald Ford twice in 1975, and John F. Kennedy in 1963, Richard Nixon in 1974, Gerald Ford twice in 1975, and Ronald Reagan in 1981 - have been the targets of assassination. Attempts have Ronald Reagan in 1981 - have been the targets of assassination. Attempts have also been made on the lives of one President-elect (Franklin D. Roosevelt in also been made on the lives of one President-elect (Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933) . 1933) .

Three Presidential candidates (Theodore Roosevelt in 1912, Robert F. Kennedy in Three Presidential candidates (Theodore Roosevelt in 1912, Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, and George Wallace in 1972).1968, and George Wallace in 1972).

In addition, eight governors, seven U.S. Senators, nine U.S. Congressmen, eleven In addition, eight governors, seven U.S. Senators, nine U.S. Congressmen, eleven mayors, 17 state legislators, and eleven judges have been violently attacked. No mayors, 17 state legislators, and eleven judges have been violently attacked. No other country with a population of over 50 million has had as high a number of other country with a population of over 50 million has had as high a number of political assassinations or attempted assassinations.political assassinations or attempted assassinations.

Is This New?Is This New? The nation's grave record of political violence and The nation's grave record of political violence and

assassination raises many difficult and disturbing assassination raises many difficult and disturbing questions. questions.

Why has the United States, with its commitment to rule of Why has the United States, with its commitment to rule of law and due process, been so susceptible to assassination? law and due process, been so susceptible to assassination?

Has the U.S. always faced the horror of assassination or Has the U.S. always faced the horror of assassination or has the crime's frequency increased in recent years? has the crime's frequency increased in recent years?

The most troubling issue raised by political assassinations The most troubling issue raised by political assassinations is whether or not they alter the course of history.is whether or not they alter the course of history.

Violence during the Violence during the Revolutionary Era. Revolutionary Era.

Political assassination was unknown in colonial Political assassination was unknown in colonial America. America.

Prior to the American Revolution, there was Prior to the American Revolution, there was not a single instance in which a major colonial not a single instance in which a major colonial official was assassinated. official was assassinated.

There was political violence in early America, There was political violence in early America, but it tended to take the form of mob action. but it tended to take the form of mob action. Crowds consisting of land hungry Crowds consisting of land hungry frontiersmen, debtor farmers, unskilled frontiersmen, debtor farmers, unskilled seamen, skilled artisans, and business and seamen, skilled artisans, and business and professional men, engaged in riotous dissent professional men, engaged in riotous dissent against British colonial officials, profiteering against British colonial officials, profiteering merchants, or Tories. merchants, or Tories.

The Stamp Act protests, The Boston Massacre The Stamp Act protests, The Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea party were only the most and the Boston Tea party were only the most famous instances of crowd outbursts.famous instances of crowd outbursts.

Assault of Honor Assault of Honor The other major form of political violence in early The other major form of political violence in early

America was the DUEL between politically America was the DUEL between politically prominent individuals. prominent individuals.

The best-known political duel took place between The best-known political duel took place between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr in 1804, but Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr in 1804, but other prominent politicians were also involved in other prominent politicians were also involved in duels, including Benedict Arnold and Andrew duels, including Benedict Arnold and Andrew Jackson, who participated in dozens of dueling Jackson, who participated in dozens of dueling situations and killed one man. situations and killed one man.

One of the last political duels occurred in 1857, One of the last political duels occurred in 1857, when David S. Terry, Chief Justice of the when David S. Terry, Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, killed U.S. Senator California Supreme Court, killed U.S. Senator David C. Broderick in a dispute over the issue of David C. Broderick in a dispute over the issue of slavery. slavery.

It was not until Richard Lawrence attempted to It was not until Richard Lawrence attempted to murder President Jackson that assassination murder President Jackson that assassination appeared in the United States.appeared in the United States.

The First Attempted The First Attempted AssassinationAssassination

On January 30, 1835, President Andrew Jackson went to the U.S. Capitol to attend the On January 30, 1835, President Andrew Jackson went to the U.S. Capitol to attend the funeral services of Congressman Warren R. Davis of South Carolina. As the President funeral services of Congressman Warren R. Davis of South Carolina. As the President filed past the casket and descended to the Capitol rotunda, Richard Lawrence, an filed past the casket and descended to the Capitol rotunda, Richard Lawrence, an unemployed English house painter, stepped up, drew a pistol, and fired point blank at unemployed English house painter, stepped up, drew a pistol, and fired point blank at the former General. A percussion cap exploded, but a bullet failed to discharge from the the former General. A percussion cap exploded, but a bullet failed to discharge from the gun barrel. Lifting his cane above his head, the 67-year old Jackson lunged at his gun barrel. Lifting his cane above his head, the 67-year old Jackson lunged at his assailant. But before he could thrash the young man, the attacker drew a second pistol assailant. But before he could thrash the young man, the attacker drew a second pistol and fired again. A second explosion rang out, but again the gun failed to fire. The odds and fired again. A second explosion rang out, but again the gun failed to fire. The odds against both guns misfiring were 125,000 to 1. against both guns misfiring were 125,000 to 1.

The 32-year old would-be assassin claimed that Jackson had killed his father three The 32-year old would-be assassin claimed that Jackson had killed his father three years earlier. He also claimed to be the rightful heir to the British throne and said that years earlier. He also claimed to be the rightful heir to the British throne and said that Jackson, in a conspiracy with various steamship companies, had prevented him from Jackson, in a conspiracy with various steamship companies, had prevented him from getting money which would enable him to claim the English crown. Since Lawrence's getting money which would enable him to claim the English crown. Since Lawrence's father had been dead for twelve years and had never visited America, a jury found father had been dead for twelve years and had never visited America, a jury found Lawrence not guilty on grounds of insanity. Lawrence was hospitalized and died 26 Lawrence not guilty on grounds of insanity. Lawrence was hospitalized and died 26 years later at Washington's Government Hospital for the Insane.years later at Washington's Government Hospital for the Insane.

The Attempt on A. The Attempt on A. JacksonJackson

Canning of Charles Canning of Charles SumnerSumner Was an American politicians and statesman from Massachusetts. An academic lawyer

and a powerful orator, Sumner was the leader of the antislavery forces in Massachusetts and a leader of the Radical Republicans in the US Senate during the American Civil War and Reconstruction.

He devoted his energies to the destruction of what he considered the Slaver Power,

that is the scheme of slave owners to take control of the federal government and block the progress of liberty.

He was severely beaten in 1856 by South Carolina Representative Preston Brooks on the floor of the US Senate. Sumner had denounced South Carolina Senator Andrew Butler in a three-hour oration that many viewed as a personal attack against Butlers honor. Preston Brooks, Butlers nephew was furious at Sumner for this personal attack and confronted Sumner as he sat writing at his desk in the almost empty Senate chamber. Brooks was accompanied by Laurence M. Keitt also of South Carolina.

Brooks said, "Mr. Sumner, I have read your speech twice over carefully. It is a libel on South Carolina, and Mr. Butler, who is a relative of mine." As Sumner began to stand up, Brooks began beating Sumner severely on the head with a thick gutta-percha cane with a gold head before he could reach his feet.

Sumner was knocked down and trapped under the heavy desk (which was bolted to the floor), but Brooks continued to bash Sumner until he ripped the desk from the floor. By this time, Sumner was blinded by his own blood, and he staggered up the aisle and collapsed, lapsing into unconsciousness. Brooks continued to beat the motionless Sumner until he broke his cane, then quietly left the chamber. Several other senators attempted to help Sumner, but were blocked by Keitt who was brandishing a pistol and shouting, "Let them be!" (Brooks died in 1857; Keitt was censured for his actions and was later killed in 1864 during the Civil War while fighting as a Confederate officer

This severe beating helped escalate the tensions that led to war. After years of therapy Sumner returned to the Senate to help lead the Civil War. Sumner was a leading proponent of abolishing slavery to weaken the Confederacy.

The First Successful The First Successful Presidential Assassination Presidential Assassination

A new wave of political violence and murder swept A new wave of political violence and murder swept the nation during the decade and a half following the nation during the decade and a half following Abraham Lincoln's assassination on Good Friday Abraham Lincoln's assassination on Good Friday of 1865. of 1865.

The Abraham Lincoln assassination, one of the last The Abraham Lincoln assassination, one of the last major events in the American Civil War, took major events in the American Civil War, took place on April 14, 1865. President Abraham place on April 14, 1865. President Abraham Lincoln was shot while attending a performance of Lincoln was shot while attending a performance of Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theater with his Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theater with his wife and two friends. Lincoln died the following wife and two friends. Lincoln died the following day in the home of William Petersen.day in the home of William Petersen.

Secretary of State, William H. Seward was Secretary of State, William H. Seward was attacked on the same day as Lincoln. His assailant, attacked on the same day as Lincoln. His assailant, Lewis Powel, also attacked several other members Lewis Powel, also attacked several other members of Seward's household. However, all of Powell's of Seward's household. However, all of Powell's victims survived.victims survived.

Lincoln’s assassin, actor and Confederate Lincoln’s assassin, actor and Confederate sympathizer john Wilkes Booth, had also planned sympathizer john Wilkes Booth, had also planned an attack on Seward. Booth hoped to overthrow an attack on Seward. Booth hoped to overthrow the Federal Government by assassinating Lincoln, the Federal Government by assassinating Lincoln, Seward, and Vice President, Andrew Johnson. Seward, and Vice President, Andrew Johnson. Though Booth succeeded in killing Lincoln, the Though Booth succeeded in killing Lincoln, the larger plot failed. Seward would recover from his larger plot failed. Seward would recover from his wounds, and Johnson was never attacked.wounds, and Johnson was never attacked.

Violence from 1865-1877Violence from 1865-1877 Between 1865 and 1877, 34 political Between 1865 and 1877, 34 political

officials were attacked, 24 of them fatally. officials were attacked, 24 of them fatally. Among those attacked included a U.S. Among those attacked included a U.S. Senator, two congressional Senator, two congressional representatives, three state governors, ten representatives, three state governors, ten state legislators, eight judges, and ten state legislators, eight judges, and ten other officeholders. other officeholders.

Much of the violence was concentrated in Much of the violence was concentrated in the South (2,000 persons were killed or the South (2,000 persons were killed or wounded in Louisiana in the weeks before wounded in Louisiana in the weeks before the 1868 election, 150 were murdered in the 1868 election, 150 were murdered in one Florida county, and in Texas, an one Florida county, and in Texas, an army commander reported "Murders of army commander reported "Murders of Negroes are so common as to render it Negroes are so common as to render it impossible to keep accurate accounts of impossible to keep accurate accounts of them"). them").

This wave of political violence ended in This wave of political violence ended in 1881, when President James A. Garfield 1881, when President James A. Garfield was assassinated by Charles A. Guiteau, a was assassinated by Charles A. Guiteau, a frustrated office seeker, four months after frustrated office seeker, four months after his inauguration.his inauguration.

Political Violence in the Political Violence in the 2020thth Century Century

On Sept. 6, 1901, President William McKinley is shot at Buffalo, N.Y., by Leon F. On Sept. 6, 1901, President William McKinley is shot at Buffalo, N.Y., by Leon F. Czolgosz, an anarchist, and he died there eight days later.Czolgosz, an anarchist, and he died there eight days later.

Leon F. Czolgosz tried to beat the charge by telling authorities, he did not kill McKinley Leon F. Czolgosz tried to beat the charge by telling authorities, he did not kill McKinley but the Doctors trying to get the bullet out did! but the Doctors trying to get the bullet out did!

He was right! But was still found guilty. He was right! But was still found guilty. He was executed at Auburn Prison He was executed at Auburn Prison

Located in upstate NY. Located in upstate NY. The Era of Political Violence had begun!The Era of Political Violence had begun!

Two famous 20Two famous 20thth Century Century AttemptsAttempts

President Theodore Roosevelt: Escaped President Theodore Roosevelt: Escaped assassination (though shot) Oct. 14, 1912, in assassination (though shot) Oct. 14, 1912, in Milwaukee while campaigning for president. Milwaukee while campaigning for president.

He was shot by Richard Lawrence and He was shot by Richard Lawrence and John Schrank, both mentally deranged John Schrank, both mentally deranged

Schrank claimed the shooting was Schrank claimed the shooting was ordered by President William ordered by President William McKinley's ghost as punishment for McKinley's ghost as punishment for Roosevelt's attempt to establish a Roosevelt's attempt to establish a dictatorship.dictatorship.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt: Escaped President Franklin D. Roosevelt: Escaped assassination unhurt Feb. 15, 1933, in Miami. assassination unhurt Feb. 15, 1933, in Miami.

Giuseppe Zangara, a 32-year old Italian Giuseppe Zangara, a 32-year old Italian bricklayer believed that the U.S. bricklayer believed that the U.S. government was hostile to immigrant government was hostile to immigrant radicals. He originally planned to shoot radicals. He originally planned to shoot Herbert Hoover before he read in a Herbert Hoover before he read in a Miami newspaper that President-elect Miami newspaper that President-elect Franklin Roosevelt would be in town the Franklin Roosevelt would be in town the next day. He also shot and killed Anton next day. He also shot and killed Anton Cermak, the Mayor of Chicago on Feb Cermak, the Mayor of Chicago on Feb 15, 1933. 15, 1933.

Times of Extreme Times of Extreme Trouble Trouble

Political violence reached a new peak Political violence reached a new peak during the 1960s, 1970s, and early during the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s. 1980s.

Attacks were made on four of six Attacks were made on four of six Presidents (one successfully, one Presidents (one successfully, one nearly so). nearly so).

Among those murdered were three Among those murdered were three U.S. ambassadors, a Presidential U.S. ambassadors, a Presidential aspirant (Robert Kennedy in l968), a aspirant (Robert Kennedy in l968), a neo-Nazi (George Lincoln Rockwell), neo-Nazi (George Lincoln Rockwell), a rock star (John Lennon), and three a rock star (John Lennon), and three black leaders (Malcolm X, Medgar black leaders (Malcolm X, Medgar Evars, and Martin Luther King).Evars, and Martin Luther King).

George Lincoln RockwellGeorge Lincoln Rockwell Was a Navy Reserve Commander and founder of the American Nazi Party. Rockwell was a Was a Navy Reserve Commander and founder of the American Nazi Party. Rockwell was a

major figure of the Neo-Nazi movement in post-war United States, and his beliefs and major figure of the Neo-Nazi movement in post-war United States, and his beliefs and writings have continued to be influential among white-supremacists and neo-Nazis. writings have continued to be influential among white-supremacists and neo-Nazis.

In 1938, Rockwell entered Brown University in Providence, RI, where he majored in In 1938, Rockwell entered Brown University in Providence, RI, where he majored in philosophy. In his sociology courses at Brown, Rockwell rejected equality and the idea that philosophy. In his sociology courses at Brown, Rockwell rejected equality and the idea that man was made by his environment, and that all human beings had the same potential in life. man was made by his environment, and that all human beings had the same potential in life. He debated with fellow students over topics such as social themes in popular novels. He debated with fellow students over topics such as social themes in popular novels.

Assisted in the KKK against the civil rights movement, protested Martin Luther King Jr.. Assisted in the KKK against the civil rights movement, protested Martin Luther King Jr.. Called for “White Power,” as an attack against Stockey Carmichael and the “Black Power” Called for “White Power,” as an attack against Stockey Carmichael and the “Black Power” movement. He also was a stong denier of the Holocaust, maintaining that it was all movement. He also was a stong denier of the Holocaust, maintaining that it was all propaganda. He supported the Vietnam War. propaganda. He supported the Vietnam War.

Rockwell's principal message was racial separation and attempted to form friendly Rockwell's principal message was racial separation and attempted to form friendly associations with the Nation of Islam. He praised Elijah Muhammad as the "Black people's associations with the Nation of Islam. He praised Elijah Muhammad as the "Black people's Hitler," and for doing the best job in promoting integrity and pride among his people. Hitler," and for doing the best job in promoting integrity and pride among his people. Rockwell also admired Malcolm X, seeing him as the next true leader for Black America. Rockwell also admired Malcolm X, seeing him as the next true leader for Black America. However, in 1965, after Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam, he sent Rockwell a telegram However, in 1965, after Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam, he sent Rockwell a telegram while he was on his "Hate Bus" tour of the South, threatening Rockwell with "maximum while he was on his "Hate Bus" tour of the South, threatening Rockwell with "maximum physical retaliation from those of us who are not hand-cuffed by the disarming philosophy of physical retaliation from those of us who are not hand-cuffed by the disarming philosophy of nonviolence" should Martin Luther King, Jr. or "any other black Americans who are only nonviolence" should Martin Luther King, Jr. or "any other black Americans who are only attempting to enjoy their rights as free human beings" be harmed, attempting to enjoy their rights as free human beings" be harmed,

On August 25, 1967, Rockwell was killed by On August 25, 1967, Rockwell was killed by gunshots while leaving the Econowash Laundromat gunshots while leaving the Econowash Laundromat at the Dominion Hills Shopping Center in the 6000 at the Dominion Hills Shopping Center in the 6000 block of Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, Virginia. block of Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, Virginia. Two bullets crashed through his 1958 Chevrolet’s Two bullets crashed through his 1958 Chevrolet’s windshield, and it slowly rolled backwards to a stop. windshield, and it slowly rolled backwards to a stop. Rockwell staggered out of the front passenger side Rockwell staggered out of the front passenger side door of the car, pointed towards the shopping center door of the car, pointed towards the shopping center roof, and then collapsed face up on the pavement. roof, and then collapsed face up on the pavement.

A Half hour later, at a bus stop several miles away, A Half hour later, at a bus stop several miles away, John Patler – a former member of Rockwell's group John Patler – a former member of Rockwell's group – was arrested as the suspected murderer by a – was arrested as the suspected murderer by a passing patrolman familiar with the Arlington Nazis. passing patrolman familiar with the Arlington Nazis. Later that day, after hearing of his son’s death, Later that day, after hearing of his son’s death, Rockwell’s 78-year-old father commended Rockwell’s 78-year-old father commended laconically, “I am not surprised at all. I’ve expected laconically, “I am not surprised at all. I’ve expected it for quite some time.” it for quite some time.”

Assassination of Assassination of 3535thth President J. F. Kennedy President J. F. Kennedy

The Assassination of John F. Kennedy, the thirty-fifth President of the United States of The Assassination of John F. Kennedy, the thirty-fifth President of the United States of America, took place on Friday, November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas at 12:30 p.m. Kennedy America, took place on Friday, November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas at 12:30 p.m. Kennedy was fatally wounded by gunshots while riding with his wife Jacqueline in a presidential was fatally wounded by gunshots while riding with his wife Jacqueline in a presidential motorcade through Delay Plaza.motorcade through Delay Plaza.

The official investigation by the Warren Commission was conducted over a ten-month period, The official investigation by the Warren Commission was conducted over a ten-month period, and its report was published in September 1964. The Commission concluded that the and its report was published in September 1964. The Commission concluded that the assassination was carried out solely by Lee Harvey Oswald, an employee of the Texas School assassination was carried out solely by Lee Harvey Oswald, an employee of the Texas School Book Depository in Dealey Plaza. This conclusion initially met with widespread support Book Depository in Dealey Plaza. This conclusion initially met with widespread support among the American public, but polls, since the original 1966 Gallup Poll, show a majority of among the American public, but polls, since the original 1966 Gallup Poll, show a majority of the public hold beliefs contrary to the Commission's findings. the public hold beliefs contrary to the Commission's findings.

The United States House Select Committee on Assassinations (HSCA) concluded in 1979 that The United States House Select Committee on Assassinations (HSCA) concluded in 1979 that Kennedy was assassinated by Oswald probably as a result of a conspiracy. This conclusion Kennedy was assassinated by Oswald probably as a result of a conspiracy. This conclusion was based on taped acoustic evidence which has since been called into question. This was based on taped acoustic evidence which has since been called into question. This evidence has since been proved incorrect by private investigators. evidence has since been proved incorrect by private investigators.

The assassination is still the subject of widespread speculation, and has spawned a number of The assassination is still the subject of widespread speculation, and has spawned a number of theories. The concept of the conspiracy fascinates America, but to this point no one has theories. The concept of the conspiracy fascinates America, but to this point no one has successfully proven that anyone, other than Oswald shot and killed the 35successfully proven that anyone, other than Oswald shot and killed the 35 thth President. President.

Snapshot of the Past Snapshot of the Past

http://http://www.youtube.com/www.youtube.com/watch?watch?v=4CjWbemTNcwv=4CjWbemTNcw

The Assassin is The Assassin is Assassinated Assassinated

Oswald is Killed by nightclub owner Oswald is Killed by nightclub owner Jack Ruby as he exited the Dallas Jack Ruby as he exited the Dallas Police Station for transfer. Police Station for transfer.

He died later at the same hospital He died later at the same hospital Kennedy died at in Dallas. Kennedy died at in Dallas.

With his death the possibility of a trial With his death the possibility of a trial is gone and the hope to discover the is gone and the hope to discover the truthtruth

Both Kennedy’s Death and Oswald's Both Kennedy’s Death and Oswald's Death are captured on screen. Death are captured on screen.

Oswald's was on Live TV for the Oswald's was on Live TV for the entire nation to watch. entire nation to watch.

http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?vwww.youtube.com/watch?v=0xU7Lhd7Wwo=0xU7Lhd7Wwo

Death of Medgar Evers Death of Medgar Evers Was an African American civil rights activist from Mississippi.

On June 12, 1963, Evers pulled into his driveway after just returning from a meeting with NAACP lawyers. Emerging from his car and carrying NAACP T-shirts that read “Jim Crow Must Go," Evers was struck in the back with a bullet fired from an Enfield 1917 .303 rifle that ricocheted into his Jackson, Mississippi home. He staggered 30 feet before collapsing. He died at a local hospital 50 minutes later, just hours after President John F. Kennedy’s speech on national television in support of civil rights.

On June 23, 1964, Bryon De La Beckwith, a fertilizer salesman and member of the Klu Klux Klan was attested for Evers Murder.

In 1994, 30 years after the two previous trials had failed to reach a verdict, De La Beckwith was again brought to trial based on new evidence, De La Beckwith was convicted of murder on February 5, 1994, after having lived as a free man for the three decades following the killing. De La Beckwith appealed unsuccessfully, and died in prison in January 2001.

Death of Malcolm X Death of Malcolm X On February 21, 1965 in Manhattan's Audubon Ballroom, Malcolm had just begun On February 21, 1965 in Manhattan's Audubon Ballroom, Malcolm had just begun

delivering a speech when a disturbance broke out in the crowd of 400. A man yelled, delivering a speech when a disturbance broke out in the crowd of 400. A man yelled, "Get your hand outta my pocket! Don't be messin' with my pockets!" As Malcolm's "Get your hand outta my pocket! Don't be messin' with my pockets!" As Malcolm's bodyguards moved to quiet the disturbance and Malcolm appealed for peace, a man bodyguards moved to quiet the disturbance and Malcolm appealed for peace, a man rushed forward and shot Malcolm in the chest with a sawed-off shotgun. Two other rushed forward and shot Malcolm in the chest with a sawed-off shotgun. Two other men charged the stage and fired handguns at Malcolm, who was shot 16 times. Angry men charged the stage and fired handguns at Malcolm, who was shot 16 times. Angry onlookers in the crowd caught and beat the assassins as they attempted to flee the onlookers in the crowd caught and beat the assassins as they attempted to flee the ballroom. The 39-year-old Malcolm was pronounced dead on arrival at New York's ballroom. The 39-year-old Malcolm was pronounced dead on arrival at New York's Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. He was killed by the shotgun blast, the other bullets Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. He was killed by the shotgun blast, the other bullets having been directed to his legs.having been directed to his legs.

Although a police report once existed stating that two men were detained in Although a police report once existed stating that two men were detained in connection with the shooting, that report disappeared, and the investigation was connection with the shooting, that report disappeared, and the investigation was inconclusive. Two suspects were named by witnesses — Norman Butler and Thomas inconclusive. Two suspects were named by witnesses — Norman Butler and Thomas Johnson.Johnson.

Three men were eventually charged in the case. Talmadge Haver, confessed to having Three men were eventually charged in the case. Talmadge Haver, confessed to having fired shots into Malcolm's body, but he testified that Butler and Johnson were not fired shots into Malcolm's body, but he testified that Butler and Johnson were not present and were not involved in the shooting. All three were convicted.present and were not involved in the shooting. All three were convicted.

End of the Dream: End of the Dream: Death of Martin Luther Death of Martin Luther

King Jr. King Jr. In late March, 1968 Dr. King went to Memphis, Tennessee in support of the black In late March, 1968 Dr. King went to Memphis, Tennessee in support of the black

sanitary public works employees, represented by AFSCME Local 1733, who had been on sanitary public works employees, represented by AFSCME Local 1733, who had been on strike since March 12 for higher wages and better treatment: for example, African strike since March 12 for higher wages and better treatment: for example, African American workers, paid $1.70 per hour, were not paid when sent home because of American workers, paid $1.70 per hour, were not paid when sent home because of inclement weather (unlike white workers).inclement weather (unlike white workers).

On April 3, Dr. King returned to Memphis and addressed a rally, delivering his "I've been On April 3, Dr. King returned to Memphis and addressed a rally, delivering his "I've been to the Mountaintop" address. King was assassinated at 6:01 p.m. April 4, 1968 on the to the Mountaintop" address. King was assassinated at 6:01 p.m. April 4, 1968 on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee.

Two months after King's death, escaped convict James Earl Ray was captured at London Two months after King's death, escaped convict James Earl Ray was captured at London Heathrow Airport while trying to leave the United Kingdom on a false Canadian passport Heathrow Airport while trying to leave the United Kingdom on a false Canadian passport in the name of Ramon George Sneyd. Ray was quickly extradited to Tennessee and in the name of Ramon George Sneyd. Ray was quickly extradited to Tennessee and charged with King's murder, confessing to the assassination on March 10, 1969 (though charged with King's murder, confessing to the assassination on March 10, 1969 (though he recanted this confession three days later). Later, Ray would be sentenced to a 99-year he recanted this confession three days later). Later, Ray would be sentenced to a 99-year prison term.prison term.

According to biographer Taylor Branch, King's autopsy revealed that though he was only According to biographer Taylor Branch, King's autopsy revealed that though he was only

39 years old he had the heart of a 60 year old man, evidencing the stress the 13 years in 39 years old he had the heart of a 60 year old man, evidencing the stress the 13 years in the civil rights movement had on him. It implies that in the 13 years prior to his death he the civil rights movement had on him. It implies that in the 13 years prior to his death he had aged 34 years or 2 1/2 times as much as a person living a normal life.had aged 34 years or 2 1/2 times as much as a person living a normal life.

http://http://www.youtube.com/www.youtube.com/watch?watch?v=I9yX0Zv1tZUv=I9yX0Zv1tZU

““Some see things as they Some see things as they are and ask why…”are and ask why…”

On June 4, 1968, Kennedy scored a major victory when he won the California primary. He On June 4, 1968, Kennedy scored a major victory when he won the California primary. He addressed his supporters in the early morning hours of June 5 in a ballroom at the addressed his supporters in the early morning hours of June 5 in a ballroom at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles. He left the ballroom through a service area to greet Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles. He left the ballroom through a service area to greet supporters working in the hotel's kitchen. In a crowded kitchen passageway, Sirhan B. supporters working in the hotel's kitchen. In a crowded kitchen passageway, Sirhan B. Sirhan, a 24-year-old Palestinian, opened fire with a .22 caliber revolver and shot Kennedy Sirhan, a 24-year-old Palestinian, opened fire with a .22 caliber revolver and shot Kennedy in the head at close range (although some have questioned this account). Following the in the head at close range (although some have questioned this account). Following the shooting, Kennedy was rushed to The Good Samaritan Hospital where he died the next day.shooting, Kennedy was rushed to The Good Samaritan Hospital where he died the next day.

His body was returned to New York City, where he lay in state at St. Patrick’s Cathedral for His body was returned to New York City, where he lay in state at St. Patrick’s Cathedral for several days before the funeral mass held there. His brother, Senator Edward M. Kennedy several days before the funeral mass held there. His brother, Senator Edward M. Kennedy eulogized him with the words, "My brother need not be idealized, or enlarged in death eulogized him with the words, "My brother need not be idealized, or enlarged in death beyond what he was in life, to be remembered simply as a good and decent man, who saw beyond what he was in life, to be remembered simply as a good and decent man, who saw wrong and tried to right it, saw suffering and tried to heal it, saw war and tried to stop it.“wrong and tried to right it, saw suffering and tried to heal it, saw war and tried to stop it.“

Kennedy was buried near his brother, John, in Arlington National Cemetery. He had always Kennedy was buried near his brother, John, in Arlington National Cemetery. He had always maintained that he wished to be buried in Massachusetts, but his family believed that, since maintained that he wished to be buried in Massachusetts, but his family believed that, since the brothers had been so close in life, they should be near each other in death. In accordance the brothers had been so close in life, they should be near each other in death. In accordance with his wishes, Kennedy was buried with the bare minimum military escort and ceremony. with his wishes, Kennedy was buried with the bare minimum military escort and ceremony. Robert Kennedy's burial at Arlington National Cemetery was the only one to ever take place Robert Kennedy's burial at Arlington National Cemetery was the only one to ever take place at night. at night.

Death of Robert F. Death of Robert F. Kennedy Kennedy

http://http://www.youtube.com/www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujPidSx7Vuswatch?v=ujPidSx7Vus

Assassination of a Music Assassination of a Music Legend Legend

Assassins do not only kill political leaders. At 10:50 p.m. on December 8 1980, Mark David Assassins do not only kill political leaders. At 10:50 p.m. on December 8 1980, Mark David Chapman shot Lennon in front of the Dokota Building.Chapman shot Lennon in front of the Dokota Building.

Around 5 p.m., Lennon and Ono left the Dakota to supervise the transfer of some of the Double Around 5 p.m., Lennon and Ono left the Dakota to supervise the transfer of some of the Double Fantasy album numbers to singles. David Geffen said that more than 700,000 album copies had Fantasy album numbers to singles. David Geffen said that more than 700,000 album copies had already been sold up to that time. As they were leaving the Dakota, they were approached by several already been sold up to that time. As they were leaving the Dakota, they were approached by several people seeking autographs. Among them was Chapman, and Lennon signed an autograph on the people seeking autographs. Among them was Chapman, and Lennon signed an autograph on the Double FantasyDouble Fantasy album cover for him. A picture was taken by another fan while he was signing album cover for him. A picture was taken by another fan while he was signing Chapman's album, capturing killer and victim on film only a few hours before his murder.Chapman's album, capturing killer and victim on film only a few hours before his murder.

The Lennons spent several hours at the studio on West 44th Street before returning to the Dakota at The Lennons spent several hours at the studio on West 44th Street before returning to the Dakota at about 10:50 p.m. They exited their limousine on 72nd Street, even though the car could have been about 10:50 p.m. They exited their limousine on 72nd Street, even though the car could have been driven into the courtyard. Jose Perdomo (who was the doorman at the entrance), an elevator operator, driven into the courtyard. Jose Perdomo (who was the doorman at the entrance), an elevator operator, and a cab driver all saw Chapman standing in the shadows by the archway. The Lennons walked past, and a cab driver all saw Chapman standing in the shadows by the archway. The Lennons walked past, and Ono opened the inner door — leaving Lennon alone inside the entrance. Chapman called out, and Ono opened the inner door — leaving Lennon alone inside the entrance. Chapman called out, "Mr. Lennon!", dropped into a "combat stance“ and shot Lennon four times with hollow point bullets "Mr. Lennon!", dropped into a "combat stance“ and shot Lennon four times with hollow point bullets from a Charter Arms .38 revolver. Two shots struck Lennon in the left side of his back and two in his from a Charter Arms .38 revolver. Two shots struck Lennon in the left side of his back and two in his left shoulder. All four caused serious internal damage and one pierced Lennon's aorta.left shoulder. All four caused serious internal damage and one pierced Lennon's aorta.

Lennon staggered up six steps to the room at the end of the entrance used by the concierge, said, "I'm Lennon staggered up six steps to the room at the end of the entrance used by the concierge, said, "I'm shot," and collapsed. Chapman calmly sat down on the sidewalk and waited. The doorman walked to shot," and collapsed. Chapman calmly sat down on the sidewalk and waited. The doorman walked to Chapman and reportedly said, "Do you know what you've just done?" Chapman calmly replied, "I just Chapman and reportedly said, "Do you know what you've just done?" Chapman calmly replied, "I just shot John Lennon."shot John Lennon."

Death of Music Death of Music

http://www.youtube.com/watch?http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qC_1bNptTjcv=qC_1bNptTjc

An Attempt on Ronald An Attempt on Ronald Reagan Reagan

The Reagan assassination attempt occurred on March 30, 1981, just 70 days into the The Reagan assassination attempt occurred on March 30, 1981, just 70 days into the United States Presidency of Ronald Reagan. While leaving a speaking engagement at United States Presidency of Ronald Reagan. While leaving a speaking engagement at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington D.C., President Reagan and three others the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington D.C., President Reagan and three others were shot and wounded by John Hinckley, Jr., who had previously stalked President were shot and wounded by John Hinckley, Jr., who had previously stalked President Jimmy Carter and had a history of mental illness. Jimmy Carter and had a history of mental illness.

The motivation behind Hinckley's attack was an obsession with actress Jodie Foster. The motivation behind Hinckley's attack was an obsession with actress Jodie Foster. While living in Hollywood in the late 1970s, he saw the film Taxi Driver 15 times, While living in Hollywood in the late 1970s, he saw the film Taxi Driver 15 times, apparently identifying strongly with Travis Bickle, the lead character played by Robert apparently identifying strongly with Travis Bickle, the lead character played by Robert DeNiro. Near the end of the film, Bickle becomes fixated on the protection of a 12-DeNiro. Near the end of the film, Bickle becomes fixated on the protection of a 12-year-old prostitute. played by Foster. Over the following years, Hinckley trailed Foster year-old prostitute. played by Foster. Over the following years, Hinckley trailed Foster around the country, going so far as to enroll in a writing course at Yale University in around the country, going so far as to enroll in a writing course at Yale University in 1980 when he learned that she was a student there. Convinced that a grand, sweeping 1980 when he learned that she was a student there. Convinced that a grand, sweeping gesture would be needed to gain her attention, Hinckley began to stalk then-President gesture would be needed to gain her attention, Hinckley began to stalk then-President Jimmy Carter — his decision to target Presidents also likely inspired by Jimmy Carter — his decision to target Presidents also likely inspired by Taxi DriverTaxi Driver He He wrote three or four more notes to her in early March 1981. Foster gave these notes to wrote three or four more notes to her in early March 1981. Foster gave these notes to the Yale police department, which sought to track him down but failed. the Yale police department, which sought to track him down but failed.

James Brady would be paralyzed in the assassination attempted. He would later James Brady would be paralyzed in the assassination attempted. He would later become a strong gun control supporter and part author of the Brady Bill signed in 1994. become a strong gun control supporter and part author of the Brady Bill signed in 1994.

http://http://www.youtuwww.youtube.com/be.com/watch?watch?v=ZDIVheBv=ZDIVheB5kIM5kIM

Who are these Assassins? Who are these Assassins? Who are the individuals who have attempted to murder our national Who are the individuals who have attempted to murder our national

leaders? Have they tended to be alienated, psychotic misfits, living on the leaders? Have they tended to be alienated, psychotic misfits, living on the margins of society and craving publicity?margins of society and craving publicity?

Or have they tended to be rational individuals with clearly defined political Or have they tended to be rational individuals with clearly defined political goals? goals?

In general, Presidential assailants have tended to be outsiders, unusually In general, Presidential assailants have tended to be outsiders, unusually sensitive to the political cults or sensations of the time. sensitive to the political cults or sensations of the time.

Few have had steady employment (only two of eleven worked regularly in the Few have had steady employment (only two of eleven worked regularly in the year leading up to the assassination attempt). year leading up to the assassination attempt).

Only one was married with children. A large number were immigrants or Only one was married with children. A large number were immigrants or children of immigrants (seven of eleven). children of immigrants (seven of eleven).

Few carefully planned their assault (all but two fired pistols, which are only Few carefully planned their assault (all but two fired pistols, which are only effective at close range).effective at close range).

Assassins Cont. Assassins Cont. Assassins' motives have ranged across a wide spectrum. Assassins' motives have ranged across a wide spectrum.

Some are mentally derangedSome are mentally deranged

Other assassins had clear political or ideological motives for their crimes Other assassins had clear political or ideological motives for their crimes but suffered from a paranoid or schizophrenic style of thinking and chose but suffered from a paranoid or schizophrenic style of thinking and chose their victim almost at random. their victim almost at random.

Only a small number of assassination attempts have been motivated by Only a small number of assassination attempts have been motivated by political ideology – Booth and Czolgosz. political ideology – Booth and Czolgosz.

In only two cases was the assassin a member of an organized conspiracy. In only two cases was the assassin a member of an organized conspiracy. Even in these instances, however, there was no plan to seize control of Even in these instances, however, there was no plan to seize control of

the government or alter government policies - the traditional goals of a the government or alter government policies - the traditional goals of a political conspiracy. political conspiracy.

Have assassinations altered Have assassinations altered the course of American the course of American

history? history? Yes, but not in the way that the assassins desired. Rarely has the assassin's Yes, but not in the way that the assassins desired. Rarely has the assassin's

political goal been realized. political goal been realized.

Sirhan Sirhan murdered Robert Kennedy to protest the Democrat's support Sirhan Sirhan murdered Robert Kennedy to protest the Democrat's support for Israel, but the man who was elected to office, Richard Nixon, was for Israel, but the man who was elected to office, Richard Nixon, was himself a staunch supporter of the Jewish state and provided indispensable himself a staunch supporter of the Jewish state and provided indispensable aid to Israel during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war. The 1968 assassination of aid to Israel during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war. The 1968 assassination of Martin Luther King failed to derail the civil rights movement.Martin Luther King failed to derail the civil rights movement.

The very heinousness of the crime has often led to a reaction against the The very heinousness of the crime has often led to a reaction against the assassin's objectives. assassin's objectives.

Still many Times we are left to wonder what could have been, if only those Still many Times we are left to wonder what could have been, if only those individuals would have survived. individuals would have survived.

Do not Forget:Do not Forget:Assassinations do not just Assassinations do not just

occur in America…occur in America… March 15, 44 B.C.E. when members of the Roman aristocracy (led by Gaius Cassius and Marcus Brutus), March 15, 44 B.C.E. when members of the Roman aristocracy (led by Gaius Cassius and Marcus Brutus),

fearing the power of Julius Caesar, stabbed him to death in the Senate house. Caesar had failed to heed fearing the power of Julius Caesar, stabbed him to death in the Senate house. Caesar had failed to heed warnings to "Beware the Ides of March," and paid the ultimate price. warnings to "Beware the Ides of March," and paid the ultimate price.

Jean-Paul Marat and Spencer Perceval were both killed for their role in the French Revolution. Marat was Jean-Paul Marat and Spencer Perceval were both killed for their role in the French Revolution. Marat was assassinated in his residence with a knife wielded by Charlotte Corday, a twenty-four-year-old French assassinated in his residence with a knife wielded by Charlotte Corday, a twenty-four-year-old French woman, on July 13, 1793. It is uncertain whether she committed the act for patriotic reasons of her own or woman, on July 13, 1793. It is uncertain whether she committed the act for patriotic reasons of her own or whether she was acting on orders. On May 11, 1812, John Bellingham entered the lobby of the House of whether she was acting on orders. On May 11, 1812, John Bellingham entered the lobby of the House of Commons and assassinated the British prime minister, Spencer Perceval, because he refused to heed Commons and assassinated the British prime minister, Spencer Perceval, because he refused to heed Bellingham's demand for redress against tsarist Russia.Bellingham's demand for redress against tsarist Russia.

Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire of the Hapsburgs, was slain during a Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire of the Hapsburgs, was slain during a parade in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914. The assassination helped trigger World War I. parade in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914. The assassination helped trigger World War I.

Czar Nicolas and his family were killed in a Democratic overthrow in Russia during World War I. That Czar Nicolas and his family were killed in a Democratic overthrow in Russia during World War I. That party would eventually be overthrown as well with Lenin and the Bolshevik Revolution in 1918 and the party would eventually be overthrown as well with Lenin and the Bolshevik Revolution in 1918 and the creation of a Communist state in Soviet Russia. creation of a Communist state in Soviet Russia.

The world was shocked once again on October 9, 1934, when King Alexander I, who had assumed a The world was shocked once again on October 9, 1934, when King Alexander I, who had assumed a dictatorial role in Yugoslavia in the 1920s in an effort to end quarreling between the Serbs and Croats, was dictatorial role in Yugoslavia in the 1920s in an effort to end quarreling between the Serbs and Croats, was murdered by a professional assassin hired by Croat conspirators led by Ante Pavelich. murdered by a professional assassin hired by Croat conspirators led by Ante Pavelich.

More…More… On January 30, 1948, India suffered the loss of Mahatma Gandhi, murdered On January 30, 1948, India suffered the loss of Mahatma Gandhi, murdered

by Nathuram Godse, a religious fanatic who feared the consequences of the by Nathuram Godse, a religious fanatic who feared the consequences of the partition that created Pakistan in 1947. partition that created Pakistan in 1947.

The South Vietnamese leader Ngo Dinh Diem was killed on November 2, The South Vietnamese leader Ngo Dinh Diem was killed on November 2, 1963, by a Vietnamese tank corps major (whose name was never released) 1963, by a Vietnamese tank corps major (whose name was never released) because of his submission to the tyrannical rule of his brother, Ngo Dinh because of his submission to the tyrannical rule of his brother, Ngo Dinh Nhu.Nhu.

Agathe Uwilingiyimana, Prime Minister of Rwanda killed one day after Agathe Uwilingiyimana, Prime Minister of Rwanda killed one day after genocide began in 1994. and Juvenal Habvarimana, (1994 April 6), his plane genocide began in 1994. and Juvenal Habvarimana, (1994 April 6), his plane was shot out of the sky as it approached Kigali airport, and signaled the start was shot out of the sky as it approached Kigali airport, and signaled the start of the Genocide. of the Genocide.

And countless more…And countless more…