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    Part Two: The Bastards Who Killed the Black Panthers

    enJanuary 30, 2020

    Podcast Summary

    • Exploring Different Industries: Purdue Global, JCPenney, Amy Winehouse's Biopic, SYNBOTICA, and FBI PodcastPurdue Global offers online education for career advancement, JCPenney provides stylish clothing options, Amy Winehouse's biopic connects audiences, SYNBOTICA provides all-natural supplements, and the FBI podcast explores the Black Panther Party's resistance efforts

      Purdue Global, an online university backed by the respected Purdue University, offers education for working adults looking to advance in their careers. Meanwhile, JCPenney is a retailer known for providing stylish and comfortable clothing options for various body types. In the entertainment industry, Amy Winehouse's biopic, "Back to Black," invites audiences to connect with her story. Lastly, SYNBOTICA provides all-natural supplements with premium plant-based ingredients and no artificial additives. The FBI and law enforcement attempted to suppress the Black Panther Party in the late 1960s, as depicted in the podcast "Behind the Bastards." In their media, the Black Panthers advocated for self-defense and resistance against perceived oppression.

    • The Black Panthers' hostility towards law enforcement was justifiedThe Black Panthers' anti-law enforcement sentiment was a response to real police violence and targeting, with hip hop music echoing these sentiments. The police's use of civil asset forfeitures highlights the significant difference in impact between police actions and criminal activities.

      The Black Panther Party's anti-law enforcement rhetoric during the 1960s and 1970s was not without reason. The FBI and police were actively trying to destroy the Black Panthers and many of their leaders, leading to a deep-rooted distrust and hostility towards law enforcement within the Black community. This fear was validated by later documentation. The uncomfortable rhetoric used by the Black Panthers, such as "kill the pigs," was not just bloodthirsty but a response to the violence and targeting they faced. This attitude towards the police is reflected in hip hop music from the era, such as NWA's "Fuck the Police" and J Dilla's "Fuck the Police," which were inspired by real experiences of police brutality and harassment. Furthermore, the Washington Post reported in 2015 that police took over $5 billion worth of property through civil asset forfeitures, compared to less than $4 billion worth of property stolen through burglaries, highlighting the significant difference in the impact of police actions and criminal activities on individuals' lives.

    • FBI's tactics to isolate Black Panther PartyThe FBI used provocateurs and forged documents to instigate violence and factionalism among Black Panther Party leaders and between them and other black organizations, aiming to keep the party isolated and exploit rivalries, resulting in tragic incidents like the murders of Al Prentice Carter and John Huggins at UCLA in 1969.

      The FBI's COINTELPRO operations during the late 1960s, particularly against the Black Panther Party, involved sophisticated and complex tactics aimed at creating conflict and isolation. J. Edgar Hoover ordered the use of provocateurs and forged documents to instigate violence and factionalism among party leaders and between the Panthers and other black organizations. The goal was to keep the party isolated from the wider community and exploit rivalries. This led to tragic incidents like the murders of Al Prentice Carter and John Huggins at UCLA in 1969, which the Panthers believed were politically motivated and orchestrated by the FBI. The exact extent of the FBI's involvement in these incidents is still debated, but it's clear that the bureau intended to stoke violence and create dissension within the black community. This is a chilling reminder of the power of government manipulation and the importance of transparency and accountability.

    • FBI's campaign to disrupt activist groups in the late 1960s and 1970sThe FBI used informants, provocateurs, and false information to sow confusion, fear, and dissension among activist groups like the Black Panther Party, potentially leading to increased violence and mistrust towards the government and white activist groups.

      During the late 1960s and 1970s, the FBI engaged in a campaign called COINTELPRO (Counter Intelligence Program) to disrupt and sabotage various activist groups, including the Black Panther Party (BPP). This campaign involved using informants, provocateurs, and false information to sow confusion, fear, and dissension among the groups. One notable example was the attempt to create violent divisions between the BPP and the Blackstone Rangers, a Chicago street gang, by sending a fake hit note. The FBI acknowledged that this could lead to increased animosity and potential violence. This campaign spread fear and mistrust, not just within the activist community, but also among white activist groups, who still have concerns about FBI informants and agent provocateurs today. The extent of this government surveillance and disruption may not fully come to light for years, and it's possible that private corporations were also involved. Despite these challenges, the Black Panthers continued to expand throughout this period, but their leaders faced constant imprisonment and assassination. The exact role of the FBI in these incidents remains unclear.

    • An altercation between Huey P. Newton and Officer James Frey in 1967 led to Newton's arrest and charges of murder, but the circumstances were unclear.Huey P. Newton was charged with murder after an altercation with Officer James Frey, but the circumstances leading to the event were disputed and Newton was eventually cleared of all charges.

      The shooting of Officer James Frey involved Huey P. Newton and Gene McKinney, both under 30 years old, and the circumstances leading up to the event are unclear. Huey Newton claimed to have blacked out after being shot, and all recovered bullets were from police revolvers. Frey had a history of racial harassment and intimidation, which was testified to by several individuals. The altercation occurred after Frey intervened in a dispute between a black grocery clerk and a white man, where Frey used racial slurs and held the clerk down for the white man to beat him. Huey Newton was charged with murder and spent time in prison, but was eventually cleared of all charges in 1971. Bobby Seale also faced legal trouble for his participation in the 1968 Chicago riots over the Democratic National Convention. The riots were a result of the Democratic Party's nomination of Hubert Humphrey, who was favored by establishment Democrats but disliked by progressives and leftists. The event was marked by violent clashes between police and protesters, and many fear a repeat of the chaos at the 2020 DNC.

    • Upholding Individual Rights Amidst Political or Social UnrestUpholding individual rights, staying adaptable, and embracing change can lead to growth and progress in various aspects of life. Seale's denial of counsel served as a reminder of this importance.

      The denial of fundamental rights, such as the right to choose one's own lawyer, can lead to a cycle of oppression and violence. This was exemplified in the case of Bobby Seale and the Black Panthers in the late 1960s. Seale, a cofounder of the Black Panthers, was targeted by the FBI and denied his right to counsel during his trial. When he spoke out against the injustice, he was gagged. Seale's case is a stark reminder of the importance of upholding individual rights, even in the face of political or social unrest. Meanwhile, the Black Panthers faced internal conflicts and disagreements as they grew and raised funds. These conflicts could have been resolved, but the absence of respected leadership due to imprisonment or death hindered efforts to find common ground. Despite these challenges, it's important to remember that progress can still be made. In the realm of entertainment, Monopoly Go offers a fun and engaging experience with new features and challenges. In the world of employment, Snagajob provides an extensive talent pool for businesses looking to hire high-quality workers. And in our personal lives, taking the time to declutter and simplify can lead to a renewed sense of clarity and focus. So, in short, the importance of upholding individual rights, staying adaptable, and embracing change can lead to growth and progress in various aspects of life.

    • Affordable wireless plans and flexible education opportunitiesMint Mobile offers a $15/month wireless plan for phone and number bring-overs, while Purdue Global provides flexible degree programs for working adults to advance their careers

      Mint Mobile offers an affordable wireless plan for just $15 a month, allowing you to bring your own phone and number, with the first 3 months unlimited. Meanwhile, Purdue Global provides flexible degree programs for working adults, enabling them to earn a respected degree and advance their careers. Another key point is the impactful story of Fred Hampton, a charismatic Black Panther leader whose life was marked by academic and physical gifts, a desire for change, and early recognition by the FBI. The FBI recognized Hampton's exceptional nature and was terrified of his potential to unify and electrify the militant black nationalist movement. Both Mint Mobile's offer and Purdue Global's education opportunities present opportunities for significant improvements in wireless bills and career advancement, respectively.

    • Civil Rights Figures: Complex and ControversialMalcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., Stokely Carmichael, and Fred Hampton advocated for racial justice in varying ways, but shared a belief in a unified, non-reactionary approach to defeating racism.

      The figures of the Civil Rights Movement, including Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., Stokely Carmichael, and Fred Hampton, were complex individuals with varying approaches to addressing racial injustice. Malcolm X, who some consider a messiah, was seen as a threat due to his advocacy for black nationalism. Martin Luther King Jr., who embraced nonviolence, could have challenged this position had he shifted his stance. Stokely Carmichael was also a contender, but his obedience to white liberal thought was a concern. The FBI saw the potential threat posed by Fred Hampton, who worked to broker peace deals and organized community programs, as enormous. Despite the misunderstandings and allegations against them, these figures shared a common thread - they believed that defeating racism required a unified, non-reactionary approach. Hampton's famous quote, "We're not gonna fight reactionary pigs with any reaction on our part," exemplified this belief. Ultimately, their legacies continue to inspire and challenge us to confront and dismantle systemic racism.

    • Building a Rainbow Coalition: Unity Among Oppressed CommunitiesDuring the late 1960s, activists like Fred Hampton and organizations such as the Black Panthers and the Young Patriots worked towards unity among oppressed communities, regardless of race or ethnicity, to confront common issues like police brutality and inadequate public housing.

      During the late 1960s, activists like Fred Hampton and various organizations, such as the Black Panthers and the Young Patriots, recognized the need for unity among oppressed communities, regardless of race or ethnicity. Hampton, in particular, aimed to build a "rainbow coalition" by bringing together poor people of all backgrounds to confront common issues, such as police brutality and inadequate public housing. This unity was demonstrated through various actions, such as protecting members from the police, providing food and healthcare services, and advocating for Puerto Rican self-determination. Despite facing challenges and opposition, these groups found common ground and worked together to challenge the systemic oppression they faced. Hampton's vision of unity and coalition-building was inspired by the work of civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., who also recognized the importance of unity in the fight for social justice.

    • FBI targeted and disrupted black civil rights organizations in the 1960sThe FBI, under J. Edgar Hoover, infiltrated and disrupted black civil rights groups like the Black Panthers, leading to violent encounters and the deaths of leaders like Fred Hampton.

      During the 1960s, the FBI, under J. Edgar Hoover, targeted and infiltrated black civil rights organizations, such as the Black Panthers, with the intention of disrupting and destroying them. FBI informant William O'Neil played a significant role in this effort against the Chicago chapter of the Black Panthers, led by Fred Hampton. O'Neil attempted to provoke Panthers into criminal activities, even going so far as to suggest building bombs and blowing up an armory. However, Hampton and his followers rejected these proposals. Despite O'Neil's efforts, the police ultimately resorted to cold-blooded murder, raiding the Panther headquarters in the early hours of November 4, 1969, and shooting Hampton and fellow Panther Mark Clark to death while they slept. The FBI's actions, including O'Neil's provocations, served to escalate tensions and ultimately led to violence. The image of the officers carrying Hampton's body from the building, with a map of his bedroom and a red x marking his bed, remains a haunting reminder of this dark chapter in American history.

    • The assassination of Fred Hampton: A political assassinationDespite overwhelming evidence, some media downplay or justify the FBI's role in Fred Hampton's assassination, ignoring the political motivations behind the raid.

      The assassination of Fred Hampton by the FBI in 1969 is widely regarded as a political assassination, yet some mainstream media outlets continue to equivocate on this fact. Despite the FBI's involvement in counterintelligence operations against the Black Panther Party and the presence of legally owned weapons on the premises, the number of gun battles between police and Panthers does not justify the violent and unjustified raid that led to Hampton's death. The Black Panthers had a significant international presence by 1970, with offices in numerous cities and representatives traveling to meet with communist leaders. The evidence against the FBI's actions is overwhelming, yet some continue to downplay or justify the assassination. It is important to recognize the truth of historical events and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

    • Factors leading to decline of Black Panther PartyThe end of the Vietnam War, increasing political representation, and government disruption weakened the Black Panther Party's base of support, making it difficult for them to sustain their revolutionary politics and continue their fight for equality.

      The Black Panther Party experienced a significant decline in the late 1960s and early 1970s due to a combination of factors. While police repression and leadership disruption played a role, the loss of support from key constituencies was also a significant factor. The end of the Vietnam War and the resulting decrease in opposition to the government, as well as increasing political representation and social access for Black Americans, weakened the Panthers' base of support. As these groups saw their own goals met through institutionalized means, they no longer saw the need for radical transformation. Additionally, government efforts to disrupt Panther meetings and gatherings further weakened their ability to organize and mobilize. This loss of utility and support made it increasingly difficult for the Black Panther Party to sustain their revolutionary politics and continue their fight for equality.

    • FBI's tactics led to Black Panther Party's demiseThe FBI's COINTELPRO operations, costing over $7.4 million, targeted the Black Panther Party with tactics like sowing doubt, dividing the coalition, and potentially instigating violence, leading to the group's demise in 1982 and the rise of violent street gangs and crack cocaine in inner cities.

      The FBI's COINTELPRO operations, specifically targeting the Black Panther Party, played a significant role in the dissolution of the organization. Through various tactics such as sowing seeds of doubt, dividing the coalition, and even potentially instigating violence, the FBI managed to drain a considerable amount of energy from the group, leading to its eventual demise in 1982. The consequences were devastating, with at least 20 members killed and influential figures like Huey P. Newton spending much of the 1970s embroiled in legal battles. The FBI's efforts were costly, with over $7.4 million paid out in bribes to informants, a sum greater than what was spent on informants in the entire nation during the same period. The vacuum left by the Panthers led to the rise of violent street gangs, such as the Crips, and the proliferation of crack cocaine in inner cities, contributing to the cycle of violence and destruction. The scale of the FBI's interference in the Black Panther Party's activities is a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of government surveillance and manipulation.

    • FBI's COINTELPRO: Disrupting and Destroying Civil Rights OrganizationsThe FBI's COINTELPRO operations during the 1960s and 1970s went beyond preventing violence and instead fostered it, targeting organizations like the Black Panthers with unlawful and violent tactics.

      The FBI's COINTELPRO operations during the 1960s and 1970s, aimed at disrupting and destroying organizations like the Black Panthers, involved unlawful and violent tactics that were intolerable in a democratic society. The operations went beyond preventing violence and instead fostered it. Meanwhile, the Black Panthers had a 10-point program demanding freedom, employment, education, and an end to police brutality, among other things. Their belief in self-defense and the right to bear arms was rooted in the Second Amendment. The Panthers believed that only by determining their own destiny could black people achieve freedom. Despite the government's condemnation of its own agents' actions, it's essential to remember the Black Panthers' demands for justice, peace, and respect for human rights.

    • Women's Role in Civil Rights MovementsThe Declaration of Independence inspired civil rights activists, but women's crucial roles in cooking, organizing, and continuing the fight are often overlooked. Their stories, many still alive, add valuable perspective to the ongoing struggle for a more equitable society.

      The Declaration of Independence, with its principles of equal rights and government by the consent of the governed, served as a powerful inspiration for the Black Panther Party and other civil rights activists in their fight for social justice. However, the discussion highlighted the need for greater recognition of the contributions of women, particularly Black women, to these movements. Their roles in cooking, organizing, and continuing the fight when men were imprisoned or killed were pivotal but often overlooked. The legacy of these women's activism is an important part of the story that deserves more attention. The fact that many of these activists are still alive and accessible for interviews and lectures makes their stories even more valuable. The enduring impact of the Declaration of Independence and the Black Panther Party's efforts to make good on its promises for equal rights and justice is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for a more equitable society.

    • Exploring Black History and ActivismExpand your knowledge of Black activism and community organizing through reading books like 'Black Against Empire.' Understand the destructive efforts against Black organizations and the importance of self-defense and community organizing as a response to the 'death of democracy.'

      The discussion centered around the importance of learning about historical figures and movements, particularly those related to Black activism and community organizing. The speaker expressed a desire to encourage listeners, especially white audiences, to expand their knowledge by reading books like "Black Against Empire." The conversation also touched upon the destructive efforts against Black organizations, such as the Panthers, and the need for self-defense and community organizing as part of the antidote to the "death of democracy." The speaker also plugged various resources, including his own podcast and books, for those looking to deepen their understanding of these topics.

    • Find a Certified Financial Planner through Let's Make a PlanUtilize Let's Make a Plan to connect with Certified Financial Planners and receive personalized financial advice and assistance to help reach your goals

      If you're looking for a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) professional to help you create a financial plan, you can find one through the Let's Make a Plan organization. This is an excellent resource for individuals seeking financial guidance and wanting to ensure they're working with a qualified professional. By visiting letsmakeaplan.org, you'll have access to a network of CFPs who can provide personalized advice and assistance to help you reach your financial goals. This can be especially valuable for those feeling overwhelmed by their financial situation or unsure of how to navigate the complex world of personal finance. By utilizing the services of a CFP, you'll be able to develop a solid financial plan tailored to your unique circumstances and receive expert guidance every step of the way.

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    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    Sources:

    https://www.hrw.org/report/2023/02/15/thats-when-nightmare-started/uk-and-us-forced-displacement-chagossians-and

    https://archive.is/KvGqw#selection-1769.0-1781.535

    Vine, David. Island of Shame: The Secret History of the U.S. Military Base on Diego Garcia (p. 18). Princeton University Press. Kindle Edition.

    https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2019/2/25/how-britain-forcefully-depopulated-a-whole-archipelago/

    https://archive.org/details/webofdeceitbrita0000curt/page/432/mode/2up?q=chagos

    https://journals.openedition.org/oceanindien/2003

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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