Contempt of Court: The Turn Of-The-Century Lynching That Launched 100 Years of Federalism

Rating:
Summary: Inspiration and Caution
Review: This book should be read by anyone who cares about justice. The sad story of the death of Ed Johnson at the hands of a racist mob contains detailed portraits of horrible bigots as well as some surprising heroes. I was most impressed by the lawyers and clergy, black and white, who defended and supported Johnson. They and their actions should inspire us to greatness when we are faced with confronting evil. The lynchers threats and actions against Johnson's lawyers and other supporters serve to highlight the courage that was needed to publicly advocate an unpopular cause. We who represent unpopular people nearly one hundred years later face the same abuse. We will need the courage and steadfastness so well described in this book.

Rating:
Summary: Fascinating and powerful
Review: This was required reading for my first year law introductory class. I couldn't put it down! Well researched and written, the events that led up to the only contempt proceeding of the US Supreme Court in history are presented in vivid detail. The use of a wide variety of sources, including newspaper accounts and sermon notes, adds depth to our understanding of the social conditions in turn-of-the-century Chattanooga, TN. Beware! There is no escaping confrontation with the ugly racist history of the US in reading this book. Highly recommended!

Rating:
Summary: Scary moments of our past
Review: When Leroy Phillips, Jr. came to visit my school in Chattanooga, I was overwhelmed by the knowledge that something like this could have happened in my city. After his talk, I decided to read the book for myself. At first, I noticed that the authors took a lot of time to research the subject thoroughly, so much so that I think they know more about Chattanooga than I do, keeping in mind Leroy Phillips does live here. What also impressed me the most was the nonfiction story itself. The story is about a black man named Ed Johnson who was put on trial at first as a scapegoat. However, he eventually was a target for all anti-black aggressions. I mean, for me the 60's were scary, but the brutality and violence of the early 1900's, especially these incidents, are just terrifying. This book will show a detailed look at Chattanooga's past; it will show some historically fascinating law and court decisions, and it will just be an amazing read.