In this gripping episode, we delve into the chaos and mystery of the Wall Street Bombing of 1920. On the sunny afternoon of September 16, 1920, a horse-drawn wagon packed with 100 pounds of dynamite and 500 pounds of heavy sash weights exploded in the financial heart of New York City, just outside the J.P. Morgan bank at 23 Wall Street. The blast claimed 38 lives and injured hundreds more, leaving a scene of devastation and sparking a frenzy of fear that gripped the nation. As smoke cleared, the question of who was behind this horrific act haunted the streets of Manhattan.
Diving into the details, we explore the immediate aftermath of the explosion, the historical context of labor unrest and political radicalism, and the flurry of investigations that followed. Initial suspicions pointed towards anarchists or communists, reflecting the Red Scare that was sweeping through America at the time. Yet, despite the best efforts of law enforcement, including the legendary J. Edgar Hoover, the case remained shrouded in mystery, with no one ever officially charged for the attack. In this episode, we piece together the evidence and testimonies, exploring various theories that have emerged over the decades. Tune in as we attempt to unravel a century-old puzzle, shedding light on a moment that shaped the security measures of the financial district and left an indelible mark on American history.