Trials of the century: Dissent on trial – the 70s

Class offered on The Gainesville 8, The Chicago 8, the takeover of Wounded Knee

In the second half of the 20th century, three trials captured national attention.

Following the riots at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in 1968, “The Chicago 8,” including Abbie Hoffman, Tom Hayden and Bobby Seale, were charged with conspiracy to incite those riots. 

“The Gainesville 8,” seven of whom were Vietnam veterans and members of Vietnam Veterans Against the War, were charged with the same thing regarding the Republican Party Convention in Miami Beach in ‘72 before the convention. 

Russell Means and Dennis Banks, leaders of the American Indian Movement (AIM), were charged with conspiracy for leading the takeover of Wounded Knee, South Dakota, in ‘73. 

Some described the accused as mere publicity seekers and common criminals, and by others as heroes. In Trials of the Century, this class will present information about these trials and the media and cultural response as the court cases made headlines, and the issues may be relevant today.

Course number: HIS0022.1P4
Course date: Tue., 4/7, 6:45- 9:15pm
Instructor: Gary Gordon
Santa Fe – NW CAMPUS 
Fee: $24.00

NOTE: You’re welcome to bring a laptop, smartphone or notepaper and pen for taking notes. For more information or to register, call 352-395-5193, or visit http://bitly.com/CommunityEd_2020.

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