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Surveying Seattle Legal History: An Examination Of Judge Thomas Burke, Ashley Morrison

UCARE Research Products

In the United States judiciary system, judges are assumed to be unbiased in their legal decisions on cases. In many cases, unfortunately, this is rarely the reality. By examining Judge Thomas Burke specifically, a survey of Seattle's legal environment can be revealed. From Judge Burke's connections with the railroad industry and protection of Chinese laborers during anti-Chinese riots reveals his desire for economic gain. With Judge Burke only presiding over two habeas corpus cases, neither dealing with anti-Chinese riots or the legality of Chinese laborers, no concrete conclusion can be drawn in that regard. Even still, Judge Burke's continued support …