what happen to sacco and Vanzetti and why did people think it was unjust?
Back in their time period, anarchists were treated as criminals maybe?
The question was whether there was sufficient evidence to convict them. Did they get a fair trial?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacco_and_Vanzetti
Sacco and Vanzetti were two Italians who immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century. They became central figures in a highly controversial legal case that unfolded in the 1920s.
Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were charged with the robbery and murder of a paymaster and a guard in a shoe factory in Massachusetts in 1920. The trial took place during a period marked by strong anti-immigrant sentiment, fear of radicalism, and the Italian anarchist movement.
Many people believed that Sacco and Vanzetti were unfairly convicted for several reasons:
1. Unreliable witness testimony: There were inconsistent witness accounts, and several witnesses identified other individuals as the culprits. Moreover, the credibility of some witnesses was challenged due to inconsistencies and bias.
2. Prejudice and discrimination: Sacco and Vanzetti faced prejudice due to their Italian immigrant status and anarchist beliefs. Their trial took place in a hostile atmosphere, and their political ideology was used against them to twist public opinion.
3. Inadequate defense: Sacco and Vanzetti's defense lawyers were criticized for their lack of experience and inadequate preparation. Additionally, their limited understanding of the English language hindered effective communication with their legal team.
4. Suppression of evidence: Allegations were made that evidence was withheld or tampered with, leading to doubts about the fairness of the trial. This included the alleged suppression of an affidavit that would have provided an alibi for Sacco.
The case generated widespread public outcry and protests worldwide. Many believed that Sacco and Vanzetti were victims of political persecution rather than receiving a fair trial. Critics argue that the pair were convicted primarily because of their anarchist beliefs and radical political views, rather than based on concrete evidence.
Despite numerous appeals and international pleas for clemency, Sacco and Vanzetti were executed by the electric chair on August 23, 1927. Their case remains a contentious and debated moment in American legal history, symbolizing issues of prejudice, injustice, and the fragility of the criminal justice system.