Tarring and Feathering in America: A History, 1865-1920

Tarring and feathering as a punishment is present throughout American history, perhaps most notably as a form of political reprimand during the late eighteenth century. Its original use was as a non-lethal method of torture and humiliation, designed to publicly shame the targeted individual and drive them from the area. Following the Civil War, tarring and feathering became less of a political statement and more of an attack upon individuals whose neighbors determined them to be deviant or noncompliant with existing community standards. The practice of tarring and feathering became less common by the early 1900s but experienced a resurgence following World War I, when it reverted back to being used as a political punishment against those considered to be anti-war and anti-capitalist, and anti-American. This book delves into the patterns and usage of tarring and feathering across American history, recounting its origins from before 1865 through the present day. Pulling upon information and accounts gleaned from online databases and newspaper archives, the author identifies the most commonly targeted people groups and explores the most notable reasonings behind their victimization within each historical era.