The Sacco and Vanzetti Case Flashcards

Who were Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti?

Two Italian immigrant workers and anarchists living in Massachusetts.

What crime were Sacco and Vanzetti accused of in 1920?

Robbing a payroll and murdering two men in South Braintree, Massachusetts.

When were they arrested and when was their trial?

They were arrested in May 1920 and tried in 1921.

What was the verdict and sentence in the case?

They were found guilty of murder and sentenced to death by electric chair.

When were Sacco and Vanzetti executed?

On 23 August 1927.

Why did many people think the trial was unfair?

Fear of immigrants and anarchists in the Red Scare seemed to affect the case.

What key evidence did the prosecution use?

Eyewitness accounts and a bullet test said to match Sacco’s gun.

What did the defence argue and present?

They gave alibi witnesses and said they were targeted for their beliefs and origin.

Who was the judge, and why is he noted?

Judge Webster Thayer, who was accused of bias against them.

How did people around the world react to the case?

There were protests, petitions, and marches; huge crowds attended their funeral.

What did the Massachusetts governor say in 1977?

Michael Dukakis said the trial was unfair and removed stigma; it was not a legal pardon.

What does the case show about 1920s America?

Fear of radicals and prejudice against immigrants could affect justice.

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