Lecture Notes: The Uni Bomber - Theodore J. Kaczynski

Introduction

• Theodore J. Kaczynski, known as the Uni Bomber, lived in Lincoln, Montana.
• Feared as America's smartest criminal, a serial bomber with no clear connections.
• Eluded the FBI for 17 years, causing nationwide fear.
• Convicted with evidence found in his cabin.

Early Life

• Born in 1942 to working-class Polish Americans in Chicago suburbs.
• Exceptional IQ of 168, pushed to succeed, skipped grades.
• Enrolled at Harvard at 16, struggled socially and academically.

Harvard and Psychological Experiments

• Targeted for Henry A. Murray's CIA-backed psychological experiments.
• Experiments aimed to cause stress and break down self-esteem.
• Kaczynski was a vulnerable subject, showing signs of depression.

Move to Montana

• Resigned as a math professor to live in isolation and oppose technology.
• Built a cabin with no electricity or plumbing.
• Began constructing bombs while holding anti-technology beliefs.

Bombing Campaign

• Targeted universities and airlines, leading to FBI nickname Unibomb.
• Killed and injured several people over two decades.
• Left no DNA evidence and crafted sophisticated bombs.

Manifesto and Capture

• Demanded the publication of a manifesto to cease bombings.
• David Kaczynski, Ted's brother, recognized the writing style and turned him in.
• Captured in 1996; journals and coded notes found in his cabin.

Trial and Imprisonment

• Pleaded guilty to avoid death penalty, wanted to be seen as sane.
• Spent life in prison, continued writing and remained connected to some individuals.
• Died by suicide in 2023.

Legacy and Impact

• Manifesto criticized technological society and its impact on freedom.
• Gained a following online, including from far-right extremists.
• Personal diaries revealed deeper personal anger and malice beyond the manifesto.

Conclusion

• Kaczynski's life and actions were a mix of ideological belief and personal vendetta.
• His ideas continue to inspire but his violent methods are widely condemned.