Overview
The lecture explains the history, process, and effects of tarring and feathering as a form of mob punishment, emphasizing its intent to humiliate rather than kill.
Historical Background
- Tarring and feathering dates back to at least 1189 with King Richard the Lionheart’s decree during the Crusades.
- Used by angry mobs, especially in colonial times, as a punishment for criminals or those who offended community standards.
- Early records describe it as both a public humiliation and a physical punishment.
The Tarring and Feathering Process
- Offender was typically shaved, then hot pitch (tar) poured or smeared on their body.
- Feathers were applied to stick to the tar, making removal difficult and painful.
- The person was often paraded around in a nude or semi-nude state to maximize humiliation.
- Pine tar, with a lower melting point (130-140°F / 55-60°C), was commonly used, causing pain but usually not death.
- Removal of tar and feathers could result in skin loss and permanent scars.
Physical and Psychological Effects
- Common injuries included burns, blisters, and scarring from trying to remove the tar.
- Victims sometimes subjected to additional beatings or abuse by mobs.
- Example: In 1832, Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith were severely beaten, tarred, and feathered, but survived.
- Deaths were rare; humiliation and survivable pain were the typical goals.
Intent and Outcomes
- The main purpose was public humiliation rather than causing fatal harm.
- More lethal methods like hanging were available for deliberate executions.
- Tarring and feathering left lasting physical and psychological effects on victims.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Tarring and feathering — Punishment where hot tar is applied to a person’s body and covered with feathers.
- Pitch — A viscous, tar-like substance used in early forms of the punishment.
- Pine tar — A type of tar with a lower melting point, often used to minimize fatal burns.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the process and purpose of tarring and feathering for exam preparation.
- Study other historical punishments for comparison.