Mob Mentality

What interested me the most from the articles was the supposed double nature of the draft mob. At points it seemed as if the mob followed a clear plan or leadership at the least, whereas other times it seemed as if the group's direction was lost. For example, when members of the mob took to cutting the telegraph lines connecting the number of precincts and police departments in New York, I took this to be very well reasoned, almost militaristic. One of the first actions in a military engagement is to cut one's enemies' lines of communication. To realize that the police were using this system to organize counter movements against the mob and to take the initiative to protect their plans is a complicated process that is usually not seen in a domestic disturbance, especially one that boiled over and erupted just a few short hours earlier. Similarly, attacks on the Tribute building, Draft office, and Colored Children's orphanage seemed all very organized, if not misguided.

On the other hand, random looting and property damage, along with street lynchings and beatings seem more characteristic of a mob beyond control. Looting and assault were also seen in Detroit in the 1960s (Don't quote me on that date) and following Hurricane Katrina's devastation in New Orleans. These are the actions of individuals and small groups rather than an organized force.

So my question is; was the mob organized by any central figure or authority, or were they a heterogeneous group prone to violence whose only common feature was a frustration with the civil war?

Also, I found this neato (Oh yes, I said neato) map of the riots which helps put things into perspective. My gift to you all.

Auf Wiedersehen,

Jon

Originally from Mr.Lincoln and New York