The East St. Louis Race Riot of 1917, one of the worst racial massacres in U.S. history, came to a close after three days of violence in Illinois. The riot was sparked by White workers’ resentment towards Black workers who were given jobs in a factory with government contracts. The White workers began stabbing, beating, and killing Black workers, resulting in as many as 100 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and 6,000 people being displaced from their homes.
Witnesses described the horrifying scenes of houses being set ablaze, people being shot while trying to flee, and others being dragged out of streetcars and beaten by white mobs. The Pittsburgh Dispatch highlighted the savagery and wantonness of the mobs, deeming it a humiliating display amidst the Fourth of July celebrations and the country’s involvement in a war to make democracy safe.
The aftermath of the riot left a lasting impact on the community, with survivors recounting the trauma and violence they endured. The incident sheds light on the deep-seated racial tensions and systemic injustices that existed in the early 20th century. The legacy of the East St. Louis Race Riot serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing racial inequality and working towards a more just society.
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