Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast “The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi” with Wright Thompson
Dec 17, 2024
Wright Thompson, a senior writer for ESPN and author of "The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi," dives into the haunting legacy of Emmett Till's 1955 murder. He uncovers shocking truths often omitted from history, revealing personal connections and the broader societal implications. The conversation touches on Willie Reed's courageous testimony and the struggle against the 'big lie' that distorts memory. Thompson's insights challenge listeners to confront Mississippi's troubled past and its ongoing impact on contemporary identity and community.
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Cotton's Boom and Bust
- Cotton experienced a boom and bust cycle twice in the Mississippi Delta.
- The blues emerged during the last decline of cotton prices, which never recovered.
Mississippi's Dependence on Federal Aid
- Mississippi has been reliant on federal government subsidies since the 1930s.
- This dependence fuels anti-government sentiment within the state.
Discovering the Barn
- Thompson discovered the barn while researching Avery Bradley's family history.
- The barn sits on a road with historical ties to the Confederate Army and the KKK.
