1 00:00:05,440 --> 00:00:07,716 - Every president since george washington 2 00:00:07,943 --> 00:00:10,218 Has had to define what we mean by the words, 3 00:00:10,370 --> 00:00:11,795 We the people, 4 00:00:11,947 --> 00:00:14,614 And a more perfect union. 5 00:00:14,633 --> 00:00:16,558 In moments of harmony and conflict, 6 00:00:17,561 --> 00:00:20,044 Of growth and severe distress, 7 00:00:20,064 --> 00:00:22,898 In times of triumph and tragedy, 8 00:00:23,125 --> 00:00:26,459 Each of our presidents has had to make a choice 9 00:00:26,478 --> 00:00:29,387 To take us forward or backward, 10 00:00:29,481 --> 00:00:31,698 To unite us or divide us, 11 00:00:33,151 --> 00:00:36,912 To greet the future with open arms or a clenched fist. 12 00:00:37,063 --> 00:00:40,248 The choices they made and how they acted on them 13 00:00:40,475 --> 00:00:43,335 Is the story of the american presidency. 14 00:00:52,003 --> 00:00:53,653 As president I swore an oath 15 00:00:53,746 --> 00:00:55,931 To uphold the constitution, twice. 16 00:00:57,326 --> 00:00:59,993 Part of the genius of that document 17 00:01:00,086 --> 00:01:03,163 Is the delicate balance it strikes 18 00:01:03,256 --> 00:01:05,440 Between freedom and order. 19 00:01:05,667 --> 00:01:07,350 But at critical moments throughout our history, 20 00:01:07,502 --> 00:01:08,852 We've seen the scales tip 21 00:01:09,004 --> 00:01:11,929 Dangerously far in either direction 22 00:01:11,949 --> 00:01:14,524 Driven by extremists from above and below, 23 00:01:14,676 --> 00:01:15,617 Without and within. 24 00:01:17,529 --> 00:01:20,513 There have always been extremist elements of our society. 25 00:01:20,607 --> 00:01:23,199 People so certain of their positions 26 00:01:23,352 --> 00:01:25,368 That they'll resort to repression or violence 27 00:01:25,462 --> 00:01:27,537 To dismantle our institutions. 28 00:01:27,689 --> 00:01:29,522 Or if they're in power, 29 00:01:29,616 --> 00:01:31,633 Will bring the full weight of our institutions 30 00:01:31,784 --> 00:01:36,454 Down on people legitimately exercising their rights. 31 00:01:36,473 --> 00:01:40,367 This wolf of extremism is constantly lurking at the door 32 00:01:40,460 --> 00:01:42,126 And it can be tempting for politicians 33 00:01:42,146 --> 00:01:43,728 To feed it for their own gain. 34 00:01:45,149 --> 00:01:47,482 Problem is if you open that door too wide, 35 00:01:47,709 --> 00:01:50,210 You risk letting the wolf into the house. 36 00:01:50,228 --> 00:01:52,879 The better choice is to recognize it for what it is 37 00:01:52,972 --> 00:01:55,215 And try to keep it at bay. 38 00:01:55,233 --> 00:01:59,219 That's something every president has had to contend with. 39 00:01:59,312 --> 00:02:01,571 And it was very much on george washington's mind 40 00:02:01,723 --> 00:02:04,224 In his first years as the president 41 00:02:04,317 --> 00:02:05,750 Of our brand new republic. 42 00:02:15,012 --> 00:02:19,739 - In 1791, washington's in his first term as president 43 00:02:19,832 --> 00:02:21,925 When the nation faces its first insurrection. 44 00:02:22,761 --> 00:02:25,078 And washington sees this as a direct threat 45 00:02:25,096 --> 00:02:27,522 To this noble experiment in democracy. 46 00:02:28,934 --> 00:02:31,267 - George washington's first priority 47 00:02:31,420 --> 00:02:34,029 Is to establish a stable economy. 48 00:02:34,940 --> 00:02:37,941 A stable government needs to be founded 49 00:02:38,093 --> 00:02:39,826 On the basis of taxation. 50 00:02:41,187 --> 00:02:42,871 - The u.S. Government was facing a debt 51 00:02:43,022 --> 00:02:46,099 From the revolutionary war of $75 million dollars, 52 00:02:46,192 --> 00:02:48,268 And it was searching for a way to raise revenue. 53 00:02:48,361 --> 00:02:51,880 So washington calls for a whiskey tax. 54 00:02:52,107 --> 00:02:53,715 This is the first time the federal government 55 00:02:53,942 --> 00:02:56,718 Had ever issued a tax on a domestic product. 56 00:02:58,871 --> 00:03:03,466 - To washington and hamilton whiskey is a luxury item 57 00:03:03,560 --> 00:03:07,303 And they need the tax in order to move the nation forward. 58 00:03:07,397 --> 00:03:11,307 But to farmers in the rural areas of the country, 59 00:03:11,401 --> 00:03:12,734 Whiskey is a form of currency, 60 00:03:12,885 --> 00:03:14,644 They can use it to barter. 61 00:03:14,738 --> 00:03:18,031 So the burden of the tax falls heaviest on their shoulders. 62 00:03:19,134 --> 00:03:20,891 - People in western regions, 63 00:03:20,911 --> 00:03:24,579 And really relied on that money to feed their families. 64 00:03:24,806 --> 00:03:27,582 Right away, farmers started to protest. 65 00:03:27,809 --> 00:03:30,901 They started to threaten local tax collectors. 66 00:03:30,996 --> 00:03:33,496 They burned down distilleries rather than 67 00:03:33,590 --> 00:03:35,815 Have to pay the taxes. 68 00:03:35,908 --> 00:03:37,425 - And the whiskey rebellion is born. 69 00:03:40,413 --> 00:03:42,580 One of the tactics that the rebels use 70 00:03:42,674 --> 00:03:46,584 Is to instill fear in those who are sent to collect the tax. 71 00:03:46,603 --> 00:03:49,162 And no one knows that better than robert johnson. 72 00:03:49,773 --> 00:03:53,182 On September 11, 1791, robert johnson, 73 00:03:53,277 --> 00:03:55,502 Who was a federal tax collector, 74 00:03:55,520 --> 00:03:57,862 Is sent to the western region to collect taxes. 75 00:03:59,174 --> 00:04:02,099 - And as he's walking down a country road, 76 00:04:02,193 --> 00:04:06,012 This gang of about 20 men 77 00:04:06,105 --> 00:04:09,916 Who were wearing women's clothing pounce on him. 78 00:04:11,520 --> 00:04:14,203 They rip his clothes off and beat him up. 79 00:04:14,356 --> 00:04:15,855 And then they tar and feather him 80 00:04:15,948 --> 00:04:18,858 Which is an incredibly painful process 81 00:04:18,951 --> 00:04:22,286 Of this scorching hot tar applied to bare skin, 82 00:04:22,380 --> 00:04:24,597 Including to the poor guy's head. 83 00:04:28,461 --> 00:04:31,295 And then they feathering from the tips of his toes 84 00:04:31,389 --> 00:04:33,039 To the top of his head. 85 00:04:33,058 --> 00:04:35,966 And they force him to walk down the road 86 00:04:36,061 --> 00:04:37,986 Another several miles in agony. 87 00:04:45,662 --> 00:04:47,478 - When they sent another collector 88 00:04:47,572 --> 00:04:49,889 To try and arrest the culprits, 89 00:04:49,908 --> 00:04:51,908 They did the exact same thing to him. 90 00:04:52,911 --> 00:04:56,913 - The violence and savagery is flying out of control. 91 00:04:57,007 --> 00:04:59,490 There's a real fear here and a real danger 92 00:04:59,509 --> 00:05:02,159 That it's not just a matter of putting out 93 00:05:02,253 --> 00:05:03,994 A little flame in pennsylvania. 94 00:05:04,014 --> 00:05:06,573 This is the possibility of a conflagration 95 00:05:06,591 --> 00:05:08,308 That could consume the whole country. 96 00:05:11,413 --> 00:05:14,022 - George washington issued a proclamation saying 97 00:05:14,173 --> 00:05:17,934 This tax was passed by congress in a lawful way, 98 00:05:18,086 --> 00:05:21,104 And you have to pay it, so stop protesting. 99 00:05:21,198 --> 00:05:23,656 They didn't take too kindly to that proclamation. 100 00:05:25,702 --> 00:05:29,278 - The whiskey rebels were not the american revolutionaries 101 00:05:29,373 --> 00:05:32,448 Because the whiskey rebels were being taxed, 102 00:05:32,601 --> 00:05:34,358 But they had representation. 103 00:05:34,452 --> 00:05:36,544 That was the american covenant. 104 00:05:36,771 --> 00:05:39,455 You get representation and then we work things out. 105 00:05:39,549 --> 00:05:43,200 When you have an insurrection like the whiskey rebellion, 106 00:05:43,220 --> 00:05:46,129 You actually have people not who are calling 107 00:05:46,223 --> 00:05:48,948 For the covenant to be heated, 108 00:05:49,041 --> 00:05:50,392 But trying to break the covenant. 109 00:05:53,121 --> 00:05:55,397 - [lindsay] so washington gathered his cabinet 110 00:05:55,548 --> 00:05:57,565 At the end of July and he asked them 111 00:05:57,717 --> 00:06:00,476 What he should do with these rebels. 112 00:06:00,570 --> 00:06:01,736 - Alexander hamilton, 113 00:06:01,888 --> 00:06:03,312 Without rapping, 114 00:06:03,407 --> 00:06:06,649 Said that the time for moderation was past. 115 00:06:06,743 --> 00:06:10,394 - The only possible option to suppress the rebellion 116 00:06:10,414 --> 00:06:11,371 Was federal force. 117 00:06:14,159 --> 00:06:15,917 - [barbara] so washington raises an army, 118 00:06:16,068 --> 00:06:18,086 And once again prepares to lead it. 119 00:06:19,648 --> 00:06:22,665 - The whiskey rebellion was a terrifying threat 120 00:06:22,817 --> 00:06:24,384 To the existence of the government, 121 00:06:25,745 --> 00:06:29,839 But taking up arms against his own constituents 122 00:06:29,933 --> 00:06:32,183 Was the road to tyranny. 123 00:06:33,437 --> 00:06:37,346 If he overreacts, he loses the experiment. 124 00:06:37,441 --> 00:06:40,850 He becomes what his critics said he might become, 125 00:06:41,002 --> 00:06:42,777 Which is a tyrant and a dictator. 126 00:06:44,839 --> 00:06:47,282 - So as he goes through this ritual 127 00:06:47,433 --> 00:06:50,267 Of putting on his uniform, 128 00:06:50,361 --> 00:06:52,770 Strapping on his sword, 129 00:06:52,864 --> 00:06:55,606 He's aware of the symbolism, 130 00:06:55,700 --> 00:06:57,959 The power of this moment. 131 00:06:59,129 --> 00:07:01,779 - And so in this moment, 132 00:07:01,873 --> 00:07:06,134 You see all the tensions in america 133 00:07:06,361 --> 00:07:09,362 Playing themselves out in the heart and mind 134 00:07:09,455 --> 00:07:11,473 Of the man who had led the revolution. 135 00:07:17,481 --> 00:07:21,983 - As washington arrives at braddock's field on August 3rd, 136 00:07:22,210 --> 00:07:27,137 A force of 13,000 militia had appeared on the field 137 00:07:27,157 --> 00:07:29,974 To support washington's efforts. 138 00:07:30,068 --> 00:07:33,736 - He is the only president that has ever marched with troops 139 00:07:33,888 --> 00:07:36,480 Towards the field of battle. 140 00:07:36,500 --> 00:07:38,666 And as washington marches into camp, 141 00:07:38,818 --> 00:07:42,504 Four states worth of militia soldiers fall silent. 142 00:07:43,840 --> 00:07:46,824 - This is one of the most dramatic moments 143 00:07:46,843 --> 00:07:48,510 In the history of the united states. 144 00:07:50,347 --> 00:07:52,764 Washington has walked to the brink, 145 00:07:54,017 --> 00:07:57,076 But he's not willing to step over that brink 146 00:07:57,169 --> 00:07:59,428 Into oppression and bloodshed. 147 00:07:59,523 --> 00:08:01,931 - The militia forces move toward the rebels 148 00:08:02,025 --> 00:08:03,099 And the rebel scattered, 149 00:08:03,193 --> 00:08:05,752 Not a single bullet is fired. 150 00:08:05,770 --> 00:08:08,696 And the whiskey rebellion ends with a whimper. 151 00:08:08,923 --> 00:08:11,348 And washington goes back to philadelphia 152 00:08:11,442 --> 00:08:13,868 With the covenant intact. 153 00:08:14,020 --> 00:08:18,188 - Washington found the exact balance 154 00:08:18,208 --> 00:08:21,601 Between asserting his power as president, 155 00:08:21,694 --> 00:08:24,120 Asserting the power of the federal government, 156 00:08:24,214 --> 00:08:27,865 But not seeming tyrannical or monarchical. 157 00:08:27,884 --> 00:08:31,869 And so washington returns to philadelphia in triumph 158 00:08:31,963 --> 00:08:34,130 In that this first insurrection 159 00:08:34,224 --> 00:08:36,132 Against the new constitution, 160 00:08:36,226 --> 00:08:37,559 The new president, 161 00:08:37,786 --> 00:08:40,520 And the new government of the united states is quelled. 162 00:08:43,233 --> 00:08:47,143 - Throughout american history presidents have had to deal 163 00:08:47,237 --> 00:08:52,574 And live with this tension between exerting authority, 164 00:08:53,243 --> 00:08:56,060 Somewhat or entirely unilaterally, 165 00:08:56,654 --> 00:09:00,748 Or being a kind of conductor of the symphony. 166 00:09:03,161 --> 00:09:05,161 - The whiskey rebellion shows that we are 167 00:09:05,255 --> 00:09:06,813 A very violent people. 168 00:09:06,831 --> 00:09:09,924 We have been a very violent people from the very beginning 169 00:09:10,151 --> 00:09:12,409 And sometimes we're okay with that violence 170 00:09:12,429 --> 00:09:14,837 And we glorify it, 171 00:09:14,931 --> 00:09:17,581 And yet we're not always comfortable with that violence. 172 00:09:18,676 --> 00:09:22,586 - The point of america is to resort to the ballot box, 173 00:09:22,680 --> 00:09:26,423 Not to the musket or the ar-15. 174 00:09:26,517 --> 00:09:30,336 All the tensions that continue to unfold unto this hour 175 00:09:30,429 --> 00:09:32,855 Can be seen in the whiskey rebellion 176 00:09:32,949 --> 00:09:34,073 And in its resolution. 177 00:09:40,457 --> 00:09:42,531 (booming sound) 178 00:09:42,684 --> 00:09:45,351 - [bill] extremism comes in various forms 179 00:09:45,370 --> 00:09:47,186 And doesn't always mean rebellion against 180 00:09:47,205 --> 00:09:48,963 The government. 181 00:09:49,190 --> 00:09:52,358 Sometimes extremism can descend from above, 182 00:09:52,377 --> 00:09:54,193 From within the government, 183 00:09:54,212 --> 00:09:56,696 From the president of the united states. 184 00:09:57,790 --> 00:09:59,474 This is the case with our nation's second president, 185 00:09:59,701 --> 00:10:00,642 John adams, 186 00:10:00,869 --> 00:10:03,127 Who signed into law repressive measures 187 00:10:03,146 --> 00:10:05,538 In the name of national security 188 00:10:05,631 --> 00:10:08,650 That sharply curtailed political speech. 189 00:10:08,801 --> 00:10:10,300 (dramatic music) 190 00:10:10,320 --> 00:10:11,878 (explosion) (sirens wail) 191 00:10:11,896 --> 00:10:14,397 His actions would echo through history 192 00:10:14,491 --> 00:10:16,574 Right down to the present day. 193 00:10:26,895 --> 00:10:29,228 - When john adams becomes president 194 00:10:29,321 --> 00:10:31,673 After eight years of george washington, 195 00:10:31,900 --> 00:10:34,734 France is in the midst of the french revolution 196 00:10:34,752 --> 00:10:37,586 And the revolutionary fervor that's overtaken France 197 00:10:37,681 --> 00:10:40,181 Is having influence in the united states. 198 00:10:40,408 --> 00:10:43,351 - French immigrants are coming and there's a fear 199 00:10:43,578 --> 00:10:46,245 That the immigrants supported the revolution 200 00:10:46,338 --> 00:10:49,248 And we're going to foment dissension 201 00:10:49,341 --> 00:10:51,767 And disorder in the united states. 202 00:10:51,861 --> 00:10:54,603 - And as thousands of people are executed 203 00:10:54,698 --> 00:10:55,697 By the french revolutionaries, 204 00:10:57,183 --> 00:11:01,202 Americans begin to talk of bringing the guillotine 205 00:11:01,429 --> 00:11:02,620 To american shores. 206 00:11:03,781 --> 00:11:06,332 (slicing sound) 207 00:11:08,436 --> 00:11:11,045 - And so there's this real concern on the part of adams. 208 00:11:12,048 --> 00:11:14,607 This could be a mortal danger to the american republic. 209 00:11:14,625 --> 00:11:17,610 - The country feels that it is fragile. 210 00:11:17,703 --> 00:11:20,204 And one of the responses to this is to 211 00:11:20,298 --> 00:11:22,539 Try to shore up patriotism. 212 00:11:22,633 --> 00:11:25,042 The sedition act makes it a crime 213 00:11:25,136 --> 00:11:27,119 To criticize the government. 214 00:11:27,213 --> 00:11:29,379 Printers, many of whom were emigres, 215 00:11:29,399 --> 00:11:31,065 Were prosecuted and put in jail. 216 00:11:32,794 --> 00:11:35,478 It's so plainly against the first amendment 217 00:11:35,572 --> 00:11:38,740 And what we think the country's supposed to be about. 218 00:11:38,891 --> 00:11:41,159 - John adams criminalizes dissent, 219 00:11:42,303 --> 00:11:43,161 Criminalizes free speech, 220 00:11:45,807 --> 00:11:47,749 And does something that in their heart of hearts, 221 00:11:47,976 --> 00:11:50,234 Almost every president wishes they could do, 222 00:11:50,328 --> 00:11:51,919 Which is lock up their critics. 223 00:11:53,664 --> 00:11:59,594 - So the fear of extremism from below creates a reaction 224 00:11:59,821 --> 00:12:04,248 And creates a form of extremism from above. 225 00:12:04,267 --> 00:12:07,769 It becomes a kind of a witch hunt. 226 00:12:09,831 --> 00:12:14,108 Luther baldwin is the pilot of a garbage scow. 227 00:12:14,778 --> 00:12:17,427 He's blowing off some steam in a bar. 228 00:12:17,522 --> 00:12:20,506 When john adams comes through town, 229 00:12:20,525 --> 00:12:23,100 The citizens of newark decide we're going to celebrate 230 00:12:23,119 --> 00:12:26,270 And give him a 16 guns salute, 231 00:12:26,364 --> 00:12:28,605 And baldwin just blurts out, 232 00:12:28,625 --> 00:12:31,542 "well, I don't care if it gets fired through his arse." 233 00:12:32,870 --> 00:12:35,688 The tavern owner, is a little bit of a prig, 234 00:12:35,706 --> 00:12:37,256 So he goes and reports him. 235 00:12:42,472 --> 00:12:46,623 Luther baldwin is fined and tossed in jail 236 00:12:46,643 --> 00:12:49,477 Just for making a joke about president adams' rear end. 237 00:12:54,300 --> 00:12:56,466 - John adams was honestly struggling 238 00:12:56,561 --> 00:12:59,378 With this question about power. 239 00:12:59,471 --> 00:13:04,659 He overreacted and set up this pattern 240 00:13:05,311 --> 00:13:08,645 Of presidents having to decide 241 00:13:08,739 --> 00:13:10,890 About the limits of freedom 242 00:13:10,908 --> 00:13:14,243 In order to defend a culture of freedom. 243 00:13:14,395 --> 00:13:16,228 And it's something that every president, 244 00:13:16,322 --> 00:13:19,340 Every generation has to negotiate anew. 245 00:13:22,403 --> 00:13:25,404 - When you pause and think about what john adams 246 00:13:25,423 --> 00:13:28,257 Did to protect america during the french revolution, 247 00:13:28,409 --> 00:13:31,260 There's really a direct line to what woodrow wilson does 248 00:13:31,412 --> 00:13:32,186 During world war I. 249 00:13:41,347 --> 00:13:44,181 (exploding sounds) 250 00:13:44,200 --> 00:13:47,368 (dramatic music) 251 00:13:47,595 --> 00:13:50,705 - Woodrow wilson made a very difficult decision 252 00:13:50,932 --> 00:13:54,266 To support american entry into the war with germany 253 00:13:54,285 --> 00:13:55,835 In April in 1917. 254 00:14:00,032 --> 00:14:02,366 And he's very clear in his war address 255 00:14:02,460 --> 00:14:07,054 That anyone who decides to oppose the federal government, 256 00:14:07,281 --> 00:14:10,558 Who in any way interferes with the war effort 257 00:14:10,709 --> 00:14:12,560 Would be dealt with, in his words, 258 00:14:12,711 --> 00:14:14,729 "with a stern hand of repression". 259 00:14:19,310 --> 00:14:22,719 - Wilson believes that he's on a god ordained mission 260 00:14:22,813 --> 00:14:24,964 To spread democracy around the world. 261 00:14:24,982 --> 00:14:28,576 He can't imagine why anyone would stand in his way. 262 00:14:30,229 --> 00:14:32,413 - So wilson goes back to the kinds of 263 00:14:32,640 --> 00:14:37,159 Sedition and alien acts we had in the late 18th century, 264 00:14:37,253 --> 00:14:39,587 But he goes beyond john adams. 265 00:14:39,814 --> 00:14:43,758 He is willing to violate rights in the name of democracy, 266 00:14:43,909 --> 00:14:47,261 And he is creating the kind of propaganda organs 267 00:14:47,413 --> 00:14:49,764 That the federal government didn't happen before. 268 00:14:49,915 --> 00:14:53,267 - Woodrow wilson established by executive order 269 00:14:53,419 --> 00:14:53,993 The committee on 270 00:14:54,086 --> 00:14:54,936 Public information. 271 00:14:55,087 --> 00:14:57,421 And it was his mouthpiece. 272 00:14:57,440 --> 00:15:00,274 It was really enforcing the idea 273 00:15:00,426 --> 00:15:05,020 That everyone had to be 100% unequivocally loyal 274 00:15:05,114 --> 00:15:09,116 To the united states during this moment of crisis. 275 00:15:10,528 --> 00:15:13,012 - Woodrow wilson really did a crackdown 276 00:15:13,105 --> 00:15:16,606 On people's democratic rights under the auspices 277 00:15:16,701 --> 00:15:18,275 That a great war is going on 278 00:15:18,294 --> 00:15:21,854 And that means our freedoms have to be curtailed. 279 00:15:21,947 --> 00:15:24,690 Wilson has zero tolerance for anybody 280 00:15:24,709 --> 00:15:27,451 That he thinks isn't preaching the gospel 281 00:15:27,470 --> 00:15:31,046 Of a certain kind of nativist americanism. 282 00:15:31,140 --> 00:15:33,699 - Wilson, not only targets german americans, 283 00:15:33,718 --> 00:15:36,811 But he goes after pacifists, communists, socialists, 284 00:15:37,038 --> 00:15:40,389 Really anyone who would challenge his agenda 285 00:15:40,541 --> 00:15:41,315 During world war I. 286 00:15:46,063 --> 00:15:48,731 - It becomes a new form of extremism 287 00:15:48,883 --> 00:15:51,066 To suppress dissent, 288 00:15:51,160 --> 00:15:55,955 To suppress difference in order to further the war effort. 289 00:15:58,317 --> 00:16:02,745 But all it does is it generates new waves of hysteria. 290 00:16:02,897 --> 00:16:05,731 German culture with all its beautiful music 291 00:16:05,750 --> 00:16:09,010 And its art and its literature is now been demonized. 292 00:16:10,238 --> 00:16:13,014 - It's a stark example of a president's 293 00:16:13,165 --> 00:16:16,759 Creating a climate of hate against 294 00:16:16,911 --> 00:16:20,187 A particular culture within the united states. 295 00:16:22,025 --> 00:16:24,341 - But where do you stop? 296 00:16:24,435 --> 00:16:26,752 Wilson raises that question. 297 00:16:26,845 --> 00:16:29,513 And it's one that all future presidents 298 00:16:29,532 --> 00:16:32,533 Would have to grapple with throughout our history. 299 00:16:37,022 --> 00:16:38,113 - America's democracy only thrives when freedom 300 00:16:38,266 --> 00:16:40,432 And order are in balance. 301 00:16:40,451 --> 00:16:41,950 And if we lose that fundamental balance, 302 00:16:42,103 --> 00:16:44,528 We risk losing our democracy. 303 00:16:44,547 --> 00:16:48,382 President wilson hoped to protect america during war time, 304 00:16:48,609 --> 00:16:51,126 But like president john adams before him, 305 00:16:51,279 --> 00:16:54,388 Took extreme action to the point of repression. 306 00:16:54,540 --> 00:16:55,464 On the other hand, 307 00:16:55,558 --> 00:16:56,965 Sometimes all the president has to do 308 00:16:57,060 --> 00:17:00,803 To allow extremism to flourish is nothing at all. 309 00:17:00,955 --> 00:17:02,121 That's exactly what our 310 00:17:02,139 --> 00:17:05,382 25th president william mckinley did in 1898, 311 00:17:05,401 --> 00:17:07,810 When a white mob massacred black citizens 312 00:17:07,962 --> 00:17:09,886 Of wilmington, north carolina, 313 00:17:09,906 --> 00:17:14,408 And effected the only successful coup in american history. 314 00:17:23,902 --> 00:17:26,812 - President william mckinley was the last president 315 00:17:26,831 --> 00:17:29,215 Who had been a veteran of the american civil war. 316 00:17:30,835 --> 00:17:33,168 He was viewed as a progressive in many ways 317 00:17:33,321 --> 00:17:36,580 And certainly tied to the party of lincoln. 318 00:17:36,599 --> 00:17:40,101 - Mckinley comes in as president at a very difficult time. 319 00:17:40,252 --> 00:17:43,253 Not only is the country dealing with a deep depression, 320 00:17:43,272 --> 00:17:46,440 We are still coming out of reconstruction 321 00:17:46,592 --> 00:17:51,503 And southern blacks were dealing with racial violence 322 00:17:51,522 --> 00:17:53,614 And systematic subjugation. 323 00:17:58,362 --> 00:18:01,622 - Wilmington was an oasis in the desert 324 00:18:01,773 --> 00:18:05,459 Of white supremacy in post reconstruction north carolina. 325 00:18:07,630 --> 00:18:10,372 - It is a city that demonstrates this idea 326 00:18:10,466 --> 00:18:13,041 That african-americans through thrift and hard work 327 00:18:13,194 --> 00:18:15,285 Could make a major contribution 328 00:18:15,304 --> 00:18:18,472 If they were only left to do that without being encumbered 329 00:18:18,624 --> 00:18:21,809 By chicanery, violence and intimidation. 330 00:18:23,146 --> 00:18:27,222 - In wilmington, the fusion between white populace 331 00:18:27,375 --> 00:18:29,708 And african-americans created opportunities 332 00:18:29,727 --> 00:18:32,394 For african-americans to hold on to 333 00:18:32,546 --> 00:18:34,396 A semblance of political power. 334 00:18:34,548 --> 00:18:37,049 So by the election of 1898, 335 00:18:37,067 --> 00:18:39,476 It was clear that the fusionist party 336 00:18:39,495 --> 00:18:43,055 Was going to continue its hold 337 00:18:43,073 --> 00:18:45,891 Of civic affairs in wilmington. 338 00:18:45,910 --> 00:18:49,986 - Well, this triggers the white supremacist democrats. 339 00:18:50,080 --> 00:18:53,732 - And they were going to take every means at their disposal, 340 00:18:53,751 --> 00:18:56,735 Including violence if necessary 341 00:18:56,754 --> 00:19:00,014 As a way to overthrow a duly elected government. 342 00:19:02,685 --> 00:19:06,078 - One of them says, "we mean to take this election, 343 00:19:06,096 --> 00:19:09,915 "even if it means choking cape fear river 344 00:19:09,934 --> 00:19:12,151 "with the carcasses of black people". 345 00:19:15,589 --> 00:19:18,106 - Mckinley was aware of what was happening 346 00:19:18,259 --> 00:19:21,760 In north carolina but he had other concerns. 347 00:19:21,779 --> 00:19:24,854 So the stage was set for election day. 348 00:19:25,933 --> 00:19:30,118 - Democrats win every seat that they had a candidate up for. 349 00:19:30,271 --> 00:19:33,881 - But even though democrats increased their vote share, 350 00:19:34,032 --> 00:19:35,958 They had not achieved their objective 351 00:19:36,110 --> 00:19:40,370 Of completely removing the fusionists from power. 352 00:19:40,389 --> 00:19:42,681 So now they had to take other measures. 353 00:19:47,230 --> 00:19:49,396 November the 10th, 1898, 354 00:19:49,548 --> 00:19:52,524 (gun popping sounds) 355 00:19:54,219 --> 00:19:58,630 Some 2000 white men rampage throughout wilmington, 356 00:19:59,149 --> 00:20:01,575 Specifically targeting the african-american community. 357 00:20:04,730 --> 00:20:08,807 African-americans were forced to flee from the city 358 00:20:08,900 --> 00:20:11,401 Into the surrounding countryside. 359 00:20:11,495 --> 00:20:13,161 Men, women, and children, 360 00:20:13,314 --> 00:20:16,239 No one was spared from the violence that took place 361 00:20:16,333 --> 00:20:17,883 In wilmington that day. 362 00:20:20,412 --> 00:20:21,987 - White extremist ripped 363 00:20:22,006 --> 00:20:23,580 Down anybody that was black 364 00:20:23,599 --> 00:20:24,598 Serving in government, 365 00:20:24,825 --> 00:20:27,009 And it replaced them with white people. 366 00:20:27,161 --> 00:20:30,420 - Wilmington went from a legally elected government 367 00:20:30,439 --> 00:20:31,605 To a coup d'etat. 368 00:20:33,350 --> 00:20:36,593 - This is the first and only coup d'etat in american history 369 00:20:36,612 --> 00:20:41,006 Where a legitimate election is undermined by insurrection. 370 00:20:41,025 --> 00:20:43,509 - The horrific nature of what was taking place 371 00:20:43,527 --> 00:20:46,787 Began to reverberate outside wilmington. 372 00:20:48,866 --> 00:20:51,441 Mckinley was made aware by african-americans, 373 00:20:51,535 --> 00:20:52,960 Who were pleading with him 374 00:20:53,187 --> 00:20:55,629 To exert his presidential leadership 375 00:20:55,856 --> 00:20:59,783 To protect the rights of american citizens 376 00:20:59,802 --> 00:21:01,260 Who were under attack. 377 00:21:02,471 --> 00:21:04,805 - "mr. Mckinley, dear sir, 378 00:21:05,032 --> 00:21:07,032 "the poor citizens of the colored people 379 00:21:07,125 --> 00:21:09,643 "of north carolina are suffering. 380 00:21:09,795 --> 00:21:12,054 "and if you have ever helped the colored people 381 00:21:12,206 --> 00:21:14,964 "for god's sake, help them now. 382 00:21:14,984 --> 00:21:17,634 "that old confederate flag is floating 383 00:21:17,653 --> 00:21:19,153 "in wilmington, north carolina." 384 00:21:28,739 --> 00:21:30,664 - Mckinley makes the decision that he is not 385 00:21:30,816 --> 00:21:33,500 Going to send federal troops into wilmington, 386 00:21:33,652 --> 00:21:37,729 Which would have been a replay of reconstruction itself. 387 00:21:37,748 --> 00:21:40,248 - William mckinley preferred to let the flames 388 00:21:40,343 --> 00:21:45,829 Of extremism burn unchecked instead of doing anything 389 00:21:45,848 --> 00:21:48,164 That would aid black america. 390 00:21:48,184 --> 00:21:51,910 He still saw that the south was about race 391 00:21:51,929 --> 00:21:54,096 And that he didn't want to intervene in it. 392 00:21:55,082 --> 00:21:58,750 And so he just let the black residents of north carolina 393 00:21:58,769 --> 00:22:00,677 Dangle in death and despair. 394 00:22:01,530 --> 00:22:03,680 - The people who perpetrated this violence 395 00:22:03,774 --> 00:22:06,274 Literally got away with murder. 396 00:22:06,427 --> 00:22:07,868 No one was ever held accountable. 397 00:22:09,279 --> 00:22:12,114 - President mckinley's inaction in wilmington 398 00:22:12,266 --> 00:22:14,783 Sends a very clear message to white supremacists 399 00:22:14,935 --> 00:22:18,437 That it's okay to engage in this type of behavior 400 00:22:18,455 --> 00:22:21,623 In order to re-establish your political authority. 401 00:22:21,717 --> 00:22:22,883 But at the core, 402 00:22:23,034 --> 00:22:26,369 It really called into question who is entitled 403 00:22:26,389 --> 00:22:28,013 To the protection of the government. 404 00:22:29,950 --> 00:22:32,709 - It served as an incredibly devastating message 405 00:22:32,803 --> 00:22:37,122 That african-americans not only had no place in wilmington, 406 00:22:37,141 --> 00:22:40,067 But they also did not have a place in this country. 407 00:22:41,645 --> 00:22:43,404 - Democracy requires vigilance. 408 00:22:43,555 --> 00:22:45,964 It also requires people to recognize 409 00:22:45,983 --> 00:22:47,724 That it is a fragile thing. 410 00:22:48,469 --> 00:22:51,245 And that's the lesson of wilmington in 1898. 411 00:22:51,396 --> 00:22:53,972 If we don't protect democracy for those on the margins, 412 00:22:54,065 --> 00:22:56,417 If we don't think about it as something 413 00:22:56,568 --> 00:22:59,144 That needs to be preserved at all costs, 414 00:22:59,163 --> 00:23:02,423 Then ultimately we contribute to its undermining 415 00:23:02,574 --> 00:23:03,757 And its ultimate demise. 416 00:23:09,080 --> 00:23:10,413 - Because of his own political fears 417 00:23:10,433 --> 00:23:12,324 President william mckinley did nothing 418 00:23:12,417 --> 00:23:14,435 To combat racial extremism. 419 00:23:15,587 --> 00:23:18,421 (guns popping sound) 420 00:23:18,441 --> 00:23:19,665 But another president, 421 00:23:19,683 --> 00:23:20,757 Herbert hoover, 422 00:23:20,776 --> 00:23:23,018 Will actually try to harness extremism 423 00:23:23,170 --> 00:23:24,945 For his own political ends. 424 00:23:26,690 --> 00:23:28,507 He uses familiar techniques 425 00:23:28,600 --> 00:23:31,193 To stir up anti-mexican sentiment 426 00:23:31,287 --> 00:23:33,937 Leading to one of the largest mass expulsions 427 00:23:33,956 --> 00:23:37,124 Of american citizens in our history. 428 00:23:46,284 --> 00:23:47,542 - The great depression 429 00:23:47,695 --> 00:23:48,210 Is the worst 430 00:23:48,304 --> 00:23:49,970 Economic disaster 431 00:23:50,121 --> 00:23:51,138 And social disaster 432 00:23:51,289 --> 00:23:54,199 That the american nation has experienced. 433 00:23:54,218 --> 00:23:57,811 Vast unemployment and vast underemployment. 434 00:23:59,297 --> 00:24:02,298 And it's in that context that we have herbert hoover 435 00:24:02,318 --> 00:24:04,818 As the president of the united states. 436 00:24:04,970 --> 00:24:07,988 Hoover has this reputation of being brilliant, 437 00:24:08,139 --> 00:24:10,398 Of being the great humanitarian for his efforts 438 00:24:10,551 --> 00:24:13,885 During world war I to feed the hungry in europe. 439 00:24:13,904 --> 00:24:17,831 And now he's presiding over this financial free fall. 440 00:24:18,058 --> 00:24:20,834 - As people are losing their jobs, 441 00:24:20,986 --> 00:24:23,078 Some of them are losing their homes. 442 00:24:23,230 --> 00:24:25,989 You have the establishment of hoovervilles, 443 00:24:26,008 --> 00:24:28,400 The shantytowns that are named 444 00:24:28,418 --> 00:24:30,344 After president herbert hoover, 445 00:24:30,571 --> 00:24:34,348 Certainly that had to hurt herbert hoover. 446 00:24:35,518 --> 00:24:37,184 - So hoover's under a lot of pressure. 447 00:24:38,929 --> 00:24:41,021 - And labor unions, 448 00:24:41,172 --> 00:24:44,416 Which are at the peak of their power in the united states, 449 00:24:44,434 --> 00:24:47,419 Are trying to find any scapegoat that can be removed 450 00:24:47,437 --> 00:24:49,696 From competition for scarce jobs. 451 00:24:49,848 --> 00:24:51,198 - At the same time, 452 00:24:51,425 --> 00:24:57,279 There is increasing discussion about how mexican immigrants 453 00:24:57,431 --> 00:25:01,190 Were suddenly taking away jobs from real americans. 454 00:25:01,210 --> 00:25:04,119 - And it's really the secretary of labor william doke 455 00:25:04,271 --> 00:25:05,787 Who's really pushing this idea 456 00:25:05,939 --> 00:25:07,381 And puts it in front of hoover. 457 00:25:08,108 --> 00:25:10,384 - Doke presents a plan to president hoover 458 00:25:10,535 --> 00:25:13,554 That he believes will help alleviate some of the pressures, 459 00:25:13,705 --> 00:25:16,114 Economic, political, 460 00:25:16,133 --> 00:25:18,725 That president hoover is under in the midst 461 00:25:18,877 --> 00:25:20,543 Of the great depression. 462 00:25:20,563 --> 00:25:23,972 The plan is to allow states and localities 463 00:25:24,124 --> 00:25:28,402 To deport mexicans so that they would not be in competition 464 00:25:28,629 --> 00:25:31,738 With other americans for scarce jobs 465 00:25:31,890 --> 00:25:35,909 And would also be taken off the relief rolls. 466 00:25:37,246 --> 00:25:39,654 - Hoover sees this as an opportunity to dodge 467 00:25:39,807 --> 00:25:41,731 The pressure that's on him. 468 00:25:41,750 --> 00:25:45,477 - American jobs for real americans becomes 469 00:25:45,495 --> 00:25:48,589 One of the phrases that herbert hoover uses. 470 00:25:50,241 --> 00:25:53,594 - And as president of the united states, he runs with it. 471 00:25:55,246 --> 00:25:58,265 - And this initiated what became the repatriation program, 472 00:25:58,416 --> 00:26:00,342 Encouraging voluntary repatriation 473 00:26:00,494 --> 00:26:01,993 To their countries of origin. 474 00:26:02,012 --> 00:26:04,830 And in some cases what might not be their country of origin, 475 00:26:04,923 --> 00:26:06,940 But is the place of their ancestry. 476 00:26:08,611 --> 00:26:11,670 - The programs that were in place really blurred the lines 477 00:26:11,763 --> 00:26:14,764 Between voluntary and involuntary. 478 00:26:14,858 --> 00:26:18,526 The white house sends a force of federal immigration agents 479 00:26:18,621 --> 00:26:22,789 To work with police officers in southern california. 480 00:26:22,941 --> 00:26:26,534 - State and local police would essentially 481 00:26:26,629 --> 00:26:29,354 Demand that people leave or facilitate their leaving 482 00:26:29,447 --> 00:26:31,706 By putting them on buses or trains, 483 00:26:31,859 --> 00:26:34,693 And use the violence that backs 484 00:26:34,711 --> 00:26:38,096 The police authority to force compliance. 485 00:26:40,033 --> 00:26:41,475 Businesses are decimated. 486 00:26:41,626 --> 00:26:44,293 Families are torn apart. 487 00:26:44,313 --> 00:26:48,631 Their estimates between 400,000 to 2 million people 488 00:26:48,651 --> 00:26:52,894 Were removed or sent to mexico during this period. 489 00:26:53,046 --> 00:26:56,472 - At least 20% of the entire mexican american population 490 00:26:56,492 --> 00:27:00,051 Left the united states, mostly by force, 491 00:27:00,070 --> 00:27:04,072 Whether it was deportation or this repatriation. 492 00:27:04,166 --> 00:27:10,153 And 2/3 of them were young mexican-american children 493 00:27:10,247 --> 00:27:10,671 Born in the united states. 494 00:27:12,675 --> 00:27:16,176 - My mother ramona espinoza is a member of 495 00:27:16,327 --> 00:27:17,903 A generation of mexican americans 496 00:27:17,996 --> 00:27:20,422 That were born in the united states 497 00:27:20,574 --> 00:27:23,833 And shipped to mexico by train 498 00:27:23,852 --> 00:27:28,647 And not allowed to come back until many years later. 499 00:27:29,692 --> 00:27:32,359 My mother's younger sister, estella, 500 00:27:32,510 --> 00:27:33,676 Had gotten whooping cough. 501 00:27:33,696 --> 00:27:37,197 And so they used the county hospital services. 502 00:27:37,424 --> 00:27:40,701 The county of los angeles targeted people 503 00:27:40,852 --> 00:27:43,537 For being a burden on the county funds. 504 00:27:46,191 --> 00:27:49,376 My mother and her three siblings were american born children 505 00:27:50,270 --> 00:27:52,028 Sent away from her country. 506 00:27:52,773 --> 00:27:54,789 So they were not repatriated. 507 00:27:54,942 --> 00:27:55,790 My mother says that 508 00:27:55,943 --> 00:27:57,384 (speaking spanish) fue depatriada 509 00:27:57,611 --> 00:28:00,053 So in that case the term is depatriated. 510 00:28:01,539 --> 00:28:03,849 It was an atrocity what they did. 511 00:28:05,969 --> 00:28:09,730 - President hoover believed that reducing immigration 512 00:28:09,881 --> 00:28:14,050 Would resolve the economic crisis of the great depression 513 00:28:14,144 --> 00:28:15,310 Or at least ameliorate it. 514 00:28:15,462 --> 00:28:17,887 He was clearly deeply misguided 515 00:28:17,906 --> 00:28:19,906 Because that had virtually no affect 516 00:28:20,058 --> 00:28:21,316 On the creation of jobs. 517 00:28:21,468 --> 00:28:25,078 And it does nothing to resolve the economic crisis. 518 00:28:26,306 --> 00:28:27,247 The role of the president is 519 00:28:27,398 --> 00:28:29,565 To be the guardian of the constitution 520 00:28:29,585 --> 00:28:31,418 And the protector of the people, 521 00:28:31,569 --> 00:28:33,161 We the people. 522 00:28:33,313 --> 00:28:35,997 Hoover failed on both counts. 523 00:28:36,149 --> 00:28:39,150 - And the most serious of this crime of failure 524 00:28:39,169 --> 00:28:43,579 Is that it sets the seeds of this anti-mexicanism 525 00:28:43,599 --> 00:28:45,340 Through the rest of the 20th century 526 00:28:45,492 --> 00:28:47,434 And into the 21st century. 527 00:28:49,087 --> 00:28:52,088 - And it's that rhetoric and ideology 528 00:28:52,107 --> 00:28:54,941 That leads to political extremism. 529 00:29:01,766 --> 00:29:02,765 - [bill] in the 1950s 530 00:29:02,859 --> 00:29:04,451 During the cold war 531 00:29:04,602 --> 00:29:06,936 President dwight eisenhower comes face to face 532 00:29:07,030 --> 00:29:09,456 With a domestic extremist, 533 00:29:09,607 --> 00:29:11,416 Senator joseph mccarthy. 534 00:29:12,628 --> 00:29:14,777 Senator mccarthy's assault on our politics 535 00:29:14,797 --> 00:29:16,704 And our institutions carried out 536 00:29:16,857 --> 00:29:19,466 In the name of anti-communism 537 00:29:19,617 --> 00:29:22,803 Contained familiar echoes of john adams and woodrow wilson. 538 00:29:24,698 --> 00:29:27,365 What will it take for eisenhower to decide 539 00:29:27,384 --> 00:29:30,977 That mccarthy's tactics are a step too far? 540 00:29:44,159 --> 00:29:49,645 - After world war ii americans had a tremendous fear 541 00:29:49,665 --> 00:29:52,332 Of communism in this country. 542 00:29:53,393 --> 00:29:57,486 - In 1949, we learned that the soviet union 543 00:29:57,506 --> 00:30:00,899 Likely due to infiltration within 544 00:30:00,992 --> 00:30:03,343 Our own scientific community 545 00:30:03,570 --> 00:30:06,680 Had detonated an atomic bomb of their own. 546 00:30:08,575 --> 00:30:11,017 This triggers a huge amount of fear 547 00:30:11,244 --> 00:30:14,688 That there is a threat from within. 548 00:30:20,362 --> 00:30:25,423 - Many americans felt that communism backed by moscow 549 00:30:25,516 --> 00:30:28,368 Was a real danger to their values, 550 00:30:28,519 --> 00:30:31,187 To their livelihoods. 551 00:30:31,206 --> 00:30:35,100 And dwight eisenhower comes into office at a time when 552 00:30:35,118 --> 00:30:38,044 The ideological challenge of communism is at its peak. 553 00:30:38,881 --> 00:30:40,696 - One of the issues that has propelled 554 00:30:40,716 --> 00:30:42,790 Dwight eisenhower into office 555 00:30:42,885 --> 00:30:45,385 Are a series of accusations that joe mccarthy, 556 00:30:45,536 --> 00:30:49,614 A senator has been making about government being 557 00:30:49,707 --> 00:30:52,050 Riddled with communist spies. 558 00:30:53,470 --> 00:30:56,712 - Joe mccarthy was a little known senator from wisconsin 559 00:30:56,806 --> 00:31:00,475 Who was looking for an issue to get national attention. 560 00:31:00,569 --> 00:31:03,795 So he makes up the story that he had in his hand 561 00:31:03,813 --> 00:31:05,964 The list of communists who were working 562 00:31:05,982 --> 00:31:07,315 In the american government. 563 00:31:07,467 --> 00:31:10,076 The press picked up on it and the next thing you know, 564 00:31:10,303 --> 00:31:12,320 Joseph mccarthy is a household name. 565 00:31:13,306 --> 00:31:17,308 - I shall continue to call them as I see them. 566 00:31:17,402 --> 00:31:19,235 - But eisenhower loathes mccarthy. 567 00:31:19,254 --> 00:31:20,903 He thought that his tactics were terrible. 568 00:31:20,923 --> 00:31:23,256 He thought his tactics were un-american, 569 00:31:23,408 --> 00:31:25,258 Unconstitutional, wrong. 570 00:31:27,003 --> 00:31:29,262 Joseph mccarthy tried again and again and again, 571 00:31:29,489 --> 00:31:32,098 To exploit people's fears and anxieties, 572 00:31:32,250 --> 00:31:34,659 To exploit perhaps their hopes as well, 573 00:31:34,678 --> 00:31:37,345 And to transform them into his own conspiracy. 574 00:31:38,165 --> 00:31:40,014 - But eisenhower was very reluctant 575 00:31:40,167 --> 00:31:42,567 To repudiate mccarthy publicly. 576 00:31:43,928 --> 00:31:45,094 He said, famously, 577 00:31:45,113 --> 00:31:48,782 "I will not get into the gutter with that guy". 578 00:31:49,009 --> 00:31:52,510 - Eisenhower does not want to get into 579 00:31:52,529 --> 00:31:55,938 A battle with mccarthy that would split his party 580 00:31:55,958 --> 00:31:58,366 And limit the power of his presidency. 581 00:31:58,868 --> 00:32:01,369 Indeed many of eisenhower's own friends 582 00:32:01,463 --> 00:32:04,297 Bemoaned his lack of public engagement with mccarthy. 583 00:32:05,616 --> 00:32:06,708 And he said, quite simply, 584 00:32:06,860 --> 00:32:09,970 "I cannot allow the presidency to be engaged 585 00:32:10,121 --> 00:32:12,380 "in a direct conflict with a senator. 586 00:32:12,532 --> 00:32:14,382 "it's not my role." 587 00:32:14,534 --> 00:32:16,384 His strategy was not making this 588 00:32:16,536 --> 00:32:19,204 Mccarthy versus eisenhower story. 589 00:32:19,222 --> 00:32:22,816 - But then mccarthy makes several allegations 590 00:32:22,967 --> 00:32:24,776 About the army being soft on communism. 591 00:32:26,154 --> 00:32:29,380 - Imagine eisenhower's feelings as mccarthy 592 00:32:29,474 --> 00:32:32,217 Starts investigating the army. 593 00:32:32,235 --> 00:32:34,661 This is dwight eisenhower, a five-star general, 594 00:32:34,812 --> 00:32:36,479 Former chief of staff of the army, 595 00:32:36,498 --> 00:32:37,330 This was personal. 596 00:32:38,908 --> 00:32:42,818 - So finally eisenhower is faced with a great dilemma. 597 00:32:42,838 --> 00:32:46,064 He has been silent for the last four years, 598 00:32:46,082 --> 00:32:49,250 But now mccarthy has taken it too far. 599 00:32:49,402 --> 00:32:53,087 So how does he confront mccarthy 600 00:32:53,181 --> 00:32:55,515 And put an end to a man who has gone too far? 601 00:32:57,911 --> 00:32:59,835 - There's a reason why dwight eisenhower 602 00:32:59,855 --> 00:33:01,913 Is called the hidden hand president 603 00:33:01,931 --> 00:33:04,507 Because he liked to work behind the scenes. 604 00:33:04,526 --> 00:33:07,027 That's especially true when he deals with joseph mccarthy. 605 00:33:07,178 --> 00:33:09,604 So what eisenhower does is he finds out 606 00:33:09,756 --> 00:33:12,423 That mccarthy's aid, roy cohen, 607 00:33:12,442 --> 00:33:17,853 Is badgering the army to do favors for someone 608 00:33:17,873 --> 00:33:19,039 Who he wants back in washington. 609 00:33:21,618 --> 00:33:24,836 - There's one thing that the army does well is keep records. 610 00:33:25,863 --> 00:33:27,881 And every time he called 611 00:33:28,108 --> 00:33:29,624 Somebody inside the army wrote this down 612 00:33:29,776 --> 00:33:31,051 And transcribed the call exactly, 613 00:33:31,202 --> 00:33:32,110 Full of foul language, 614 00:33:32,128 --> 00:33:33,111 Full of bullying, 615 00:33:33,129 --> 00:33:34,370 Full of berating. 616 00:33:34,389 --> 00:33:37,131 This material they know is going to be dynamite. 617 00:33:38,451 --> 00:33:41,561 - Eisenhower knew that and that's exactly what he wanted. 618 00:33:41,712 --> 00:33:44,289 - So in January 1954, 619 00:33:44,307 --> 00:33:46,124 The eisenhower white house comes into possession 620 00:33:46,142 --> 00:33:48,384 Of this dossier material. 621 00:33:48,403 --> 00:33:51,646 And they leaked the dossier to the press. 622 00:33:51,798 --> 00:33:53,981 The purpose of doing so was to create a scandal 623 00:33:54,134 --> 00:33:55,575 That mccarthy had to address. 624 00:33:59,823 --> 00:34:03,416 - The report leads directly to an investigation. 625 00:34:05,236 --> 00:34:06,644 - Now the tables are turned 626 00:34:06,663 --> 00:34:08,755 And suddenly joe mccarthy himself 627 00:34:08,982 --> 00:34:11,499 Is being investigated for abuse of power, 628 00:34:11,593 --> 00:34:14,385 Looking for a sweet deal for his staff member. 629 00:34:16,489 --> 00:34:17,413 - [recorded voice] do you solemnly swear 630 00:34:17,432 --> 00:34:18,914 The testimony you're about to give 631 00:34:18,934 --> 00:34:20,100 Is the truth, the whole truth, 632 00:34:20,251 --> 00:34:22,176 And nothing but the truth, so help you god? 633 00:34:22,329 --> 00:34:23,586 - The army mccarthy hearings 634 00:34:23,680 --> 00:34:26,589 Are among the first televised congressional hearings 635 00:34:26,683 --> 00:34:28,349 In american history. 636 00:34:29,111 --> 00:34:30,759 - [mccarthy] all we've been investigating 637 00:34:30,779 --> 00:34:33,521 Has been some communists in the army. 638 00:34:33,615 --> 00:34:36,357 - They were absolutely gripping to many people 639 00:34:36,451 --> 00:34:39,452 Because it was their first chance to see mccarthy. 640 00:34:41,514 --> 00:34:43,348 - The whole nation is watching these hearings, 641 00:34:43,366 --> 00:34:44,791 Including dwight eisenhower. 642 00:34:45,869 --> 00:34:47,034 And the question is, 643 00:34:47,187 --> 00:34:49,854 Will mccarthy expose himself for what he is, 644 00:34:49,873 --> 00:34:52,190 An extremist and a fraud, 645 00:34:52,208 --> 00:34:55,117 Or will he make americans think that he really is 646 00:34:55,137 --> 00:34:56,694 A protector of american democracy. 647 00:34:56,787 --> 00:35:00,640 In many ways eisenhower's political career 648 00:35:00,867 --> 00:35:02,809 Rests on the answer to that question. 649 00:35:06,723 --> 00:35:08,055 - And call the roll of the traitors and plunderers. 650 00:35:08,208 --> 00:35:10,132 - [bill] extremism runs deep in the fabric 651 00:35:10,226 --> 00:35:12,226 Of who we are as a nation. 652 00:35:12,379 --> 00:35:13,378 - Would you answer the question 653 00:35:13,471 --> 00:35:14,879 As worded by the chief counsel, general. 654 00:35:14,972 --> 00:35:16,381 - [bill] senator joseph mccarthy, 655 00:35:16,399 --> 00:35:19,050 Achieves renown by playing to our fears. 656 00:35:19,068 --> 00:35:20,809 - This committees activities may well determine 657 00:35:20,829 --> 00:35:23,646 Whether this nation will live or die. 658 00:35:23,665 --> 00:35:25,556 - But his attempt to use live hearings 659 00:35:25,650 --> 00:35:27,725 To further alarm the public 660 00:35:27,744 --> 00:35:30,077 Will actually reveal him for what he is, 661 00:35:30,580 --> 00:35:31,913 Not the savior of america, 662 00:35:32,065 --> 00:35:35,175 But the extremist in our midst. 663 00:35:38,847 --> 00:35:41,572 - I am very happy to have this circus ended 664 00:35:42,166 --> 00:35:44,833 So that we can get back to the work 665 00:35:44,853 --> 00:35:48,170 Of digging out communism, corruption, 666 00:35:48,190 --> 00:35:49,764 Treason in government. 667 00:35:49,916 --> 00:35:52,692 - For the first time the american people 668 00:35:52,843 --> 00:35:54,510 Can see joe mccarthy. 669 00:35:54,529 --> 00:35:56,512 - That is mccarthyism 670 00:35:56,531 --> 00:35:58,514 And oh, that's an awful thing. 671 00:35:59,367 --> 00:36:01,868 - And they find out very quickly that he is a bully, 672 00:36:02,095 --> 00:36:06,355 That he is crude and rude and loud and rowdy, 673 00:36:06,374 --> 00:36:09,450 And he brow beats the witnesses. 674 00:36:09,602 --> 00:36:11,452 And people are watching him in their living rooms 675 00:36:11,604 --> 00:36:14,939 And becoming disgusted by his personal conduct. 676 00:36:14,958 --> 00:36:19,277 So the climactic moment of the hearings 677 00:36:19,295 --> 00:36:23,281 Comes when mccarthy says that joe welch, 678 00:36:23,299 --> 00:36:26,559 Who is the lawyer for the army, 679 00:36:26,711 --> 00:36:30,897 Has on his staff, a disloyal american. 680 00:36:31,124 --> 00:36:34,141 And joseph welsh decides at that moment 681 00:36:34,294 --> 00:36:38,220 That it is time to stop mccarthy. 682 00:36:38,314 --> 00:36:40,298 And so he says to mccarthy 683 00:36:40,316 --> 00:36:44,151 - Let us not assassinate this lad further, senator. 684 00:36:44,304 --> 00:36:46,137 You've done enough. 685 00:36:46,230 --> 00:36:50,083 Have you no sense of decency, sir? 686 00:36:50,234 --> 00:36:55,421 At long last have you left no sense of decency? 687 00:36:56,574 --> 00:36:59,000 - It was a moment when all the air 688 00:36:59,152 --> 00:37:00,985 Finally went out of the balloon of joe mccarthy 689 00:37:01,930 --> 00:37:04,097 Because of course what was totally lacking 690 00:37:04,324 --> 00:37:06,841 In the mccarthy's life and his personality 691 00:37:06,993 --> 00:37:09,394 Was a sense of decency. 692 00:37:10,254 --> 00:37:11,512 He had lost his power, 693 00:37:11,606 --> 00:37:15,108 His ability to cast a spell over the american public. 694 00:37:15,944 --> 00:37:17,426 - After the hearings, 695 00:37:17,445 --> 00:37:21,281 Mccarthy loses his stature within the united states senate. 696 00:37:22,692 --> 00:37:27,512 And in December of 1954 the senate votes 697 00:37:27,530 --> 00:37:30,515 To censure joseph mccarthy. 698 00:37:30,533 --> 00:37:34,961 And within a few years, he drinks himself to death. 699 00:37:42,804 --> 00:37:45,029 - A lot of the story of mccarthy is 700 00:37:45,048 --> 00:37:46,639 That while he was ultimately censured 701 00:37:46,866 --> 00:37:50,868 It took a very long time for eisenhower 702 00:37:50,887 --> 00:37:52,937 To take those steps to reign him in 703 00:37:54,541 --> 00:37:57,391 And shows that even someone in the presidency 704 00:37:57,485 --> 00:38:02,380 Can feel politically beholden to more extremist wings. 705 00:38:02,398 --> 00:38:06,492 And that it requires, you know, 706 00:38:06,644 --> 00:38:11,331 Real courage to stand up against someone in your own party. 707 00:38:12,667 --> 00:38:14,817 - Democracy does require a dedication 708 00:38:14,836 --> 00:38:16,819 And a commitment to respecting the truth. 709 00:38:16,838 --> 00:38:18,229 And that's something that mccarthy 710 00:38:18,322 --> 00:38:20,731 Failed completely to respect. 711 00:38:20,750 --> 00:38:22,491 And which if we get away from that, 712 00:38:22,585 --> 00:38:24,569 We really stand the chance 713 00:38:24,587 --> 00:38:27,013 Of losing our democracy altogether. 714 00:38:27,240 --> 00:38:29,090 - Extremism has always been a part 715 00:38:29,184 --> 00:38:32,185 Of the american political and cultural fabric 716 00:38:32,336 --> 00:38:34,020 Since our founding. 717 00:38:34,171 --> 00:38:35,413 This is who we are, 718 00:38:35,431 --> 00:38:37,005 But it's also something that we need to fight 719 00:38:37,100 --> 00:38:38,316 And to be vigilant about. 720 00:38:39,602 --> 00:38:41,510 - Extremism is the effort 721 00:38:41,529 --> 00:38:44,346 To undermine democratic institutions. 722 00:38:44,366 --> 00:38:47,108 It's an effort to shatter the covenant. 723 00:38:48,203 --> 00:38:52,430 The idea that we are becoming a more perfect union 724 00:38:52,448 --> 00:38:56,709 And extremists twist and distort that dream, 725 00:38:56,861 --> 00:38:59,120 That vision, that hope 726 00:38:59,214 --> 00:39:04,366 And turn it into something that goes against the very 727 00:39:04,386 --> 00:39:06,719 Notion of what it means to be an american. 728 00:39:08,223 --> 00:39:11,465 And the presidency can either be the biggest obstacle 729 00:39:11,559 --> 00:39:13,393 In that course, 730 00:39:13,544 --> 00:39:16,562 Or it can serve as the greatest defender and advocate. 731 00:39:24,647 --> 00:39:26,981 - So, extremism can be stamped out, 732 00:39:28,134 --> 00:39:31,411 But first it has to be recognized for what it is. 733 00:39:31,562 --> 00:39:34,488 This is the challenge that president eisenhower had to face 734 00:39:34,582 --> 00:39:36,916 As would many of our nations presidents to follow, 735 00:39:37,067 --> 00:39:38,734 Including me. 736 00:39:38,753 --> 00:39:39,752 When I was president, 737 00:39:39,904 --> 00:39:41,570 I had to confront the rising movement 738 00:39:41,589 --> 00:39:43,481 Of far-right extremists, 739 00:39:43,499 --> 00:39:44,982 Who took mistrust of government 740 00:39:45,075 --> 00:39:47,835 To a new level of outright hatred. 741 00:39:47,987 --> 00:39:51,747 On April 19, 1995 in oklahoma city, 742 00:39:51,766 --> 00:39:53,766 Anti-government extremists carried out 743 00:39:53,918 --> 00:39:57,828 The deadliest act of domestic terror in american history, 744 00:39:57,922 --> 00:40:00,088 Bombing a federal office building 745 00:40:00,108 --> 00:40:03,684 And killing 168 innocent people, 746 00:40:03,836 --> 00:40:06,094 Mostly government employees, 747 00:40:06,114 --> 00:40:09,615 But including 19 children in the building's daycare center. 748 00:40:09,767 --> 00:40:12,343 The oklahoma city bombing sped the passage 749 00:40:12,361 --> 00:40:15,346 Of new laws to fight domestic terrorism. 750 00:40:15,439 --> 00:40:17,272 It also led millions of americans 751 00:40:17,292 --> 00:40:20,442 To reassess how they talk and thought 752 00:40:20,462 --> 00:40:22,962 About people who disagreed with them 753 00:40:23,189 --> 00:40:26,357 And people who work for their government. 754 00:40:26,450 --> 00:40:28,709 The extremist didn't go away, 755 00:40:28,861 --> 00:40:31,304 But they were put on the defensive, 756 00:40:31,455 --> 00:40:33,047 And for the rest of my presidency, 757 00:40:33,199 --> 00:40:36,309 They never regain the position they once held. 758 00:40:37,979 --> 00:40:41,481 There's always been an extremist element in our society. 759 00:40:42,875 --> 00:40:45,318 More recently in charlottesville, 760 00:40:45,545 --> 00:40:47,803 And in the assault on the capitol. 761 00:40:47,822 --> 00:40:51,732 We've seen again the cost of that extremism in human lives 762 00:40:51,884 --> 00:40:54,827 And the cost to the stability of our democracy. 763 00:40:56,222 --> 00:40:59,056 Americans do have vast freedoms 764 00:40:59,075 --> 00:41:01,149 That can include harsh criticism, 765 00:41:01,169 --> 00:41:04,504 Protests, even civil disobedience, 766 00:41:04,655 --> 00:41:08,007 But not calling for violence or committing it. 767 00:41:09,902 --> 00:41:12,678 That's the bright line that has protected our democracy 768 00:41:12,905 --> 00:41:15,348 Since president washington raised an army 769 00:41:15,575 --> 00:41:17,350 In response to the whiskey rebellion. 770 00:41:19,245 --> 00:41:24,023 Whether that line continues to hold is up to all of us. 771 00:41:26,510 --> 00:41:29,362 (thoughtful music)