The Sacco and Vanzetti Case: A Brief History with Documents

by Michael Miller Topp

In 1920 Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti, two Italian immigrants and devout anarchists, were accused of robbery and murder. Their subsequent trial and execution captivated the world and exposed many of the cultural and political tensions of 1920s America. Sacco and Vanzetti’s supporters claimed the two anarchists had been persecuted for their beliefs and not their actions, while their detractors saw proof of the country’s ability to protect itself from dangerous foreign elements. Michael Topp’s unique collection of documents examines both sides and provides a clear presentation of the trial while emphasizing the broad historical context in which it was conducted. An interpretive introductory essay, document headnotes, a chronology, and questions for consideration provide further pedagogical support. A bibliographic essay and a brief discussion of artistic productions based on the trial are also included.

Genres: History

200 pages, Paperback

First published November 3, 2004

Reviews

[RYD · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read about Sacco and Vanzetti before, but never a book specifically focusing on them. I brought no preconceived motions about their innocence or guilt, but it is clear they were, indeed, executed despite a patently unfair trial. Consider the reality that the trial judge also heard the appeal, something that on its face is absurd:

"Due to a quirk in the Massachusetts legal system, which was amended soon after their executions, Sacco and Vanzetti's appeals could only be heard by the judge who heard their case. Judge Thayer turned each appeal down -- four of them in one day -- and gloated about it to his friends."

Enough said.

I was touched by this letter that Sacco wrote to his son, offering advice in broken English on helping his mother through her grief after the execution:

"So, Son, instead of crying be strong, so as to be able to comfort your mother, and when you want to distract your mother from the discouraging soulness, I will tell you what I used to do. To take her for a long walk in the quiet country, gathering wild flowers here and there, resting under the shade of trees, between the harmony of the vivid stream and the tranquility of the mothernature, and I am sure that she will enjoy this very much, as you surely would be happy for it."

[Wesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first half of this book talks about the climate at the time of the trial as well as the general facts, looking to be as unbiased as possible. The rest of it is simply primary documents about the case from the people involved, including excerpts from both Sacco's and Vanzetti's letters. It is a great way to quickly inform yourself about everything surrounding the trial and why it is still an important case today given the continuation of anti-immigrant and anti-radical ideology in the United States.