Published: July 31, 2023
On September 30, 1919 Black farmers met in Elaine, Arkansas with Robert L. Hill to establish the Progressive Farmers and Household Union of America. The Union's goal was to fight for better pay and higher cotton prices. A white mob shot at them, and the farmers returned fire in self-defense. As news of the confrontation spread, a massacre ensued. More than 100 African Americans died (some estimates are as high as 800), but the farmers were blamed for the event and charged with murder. 67 were indicted for inciting violence, and 12 Black sharecroppers (the Elaine 12) were sentenced to death.
Resources
- The Elaine Massacre - Zinn Education Project
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