African American Studies Commons^™

“‘A Warlike Demonstration': Legalism, Violent Self-Help And Electoral Politics, In Decatur, Illinois, 1894-1898.”., Sundiata K. Cha-Jua

Sundiata K Cha-Jua

This project addresses the limitations of previous lynching research. It explores the racial-class struggle unleashed in Decatur, Illinois, a middle-sized northern industrial town, after the lynching of Samuel J. Bush in 1893. This work examines Bush’s efforts to save his own life and his commentary on his accuser. Thus, I treat him as an active agent rather than as a passive victim. Moreover, by examining the black community’s social networks, institutional structures, and leadership, I provide a detailed analysis of its racial-class capacities. By focusing on the organizing activities of the black community, this case study explores a wider range …