Exploring Primary Sources: Braden Exercise

Soon after the purchase and transfer of the house on Rone Court, both the Bradens and Wades began receiving threats. The Wades in particular faced discrimination and violence from neighbors and other community members, including rocks thrown at the house, a cross burned in an adjoining lot, and eventually partial destruction of the house by dynamite. However, not everyone in the neighborhood opposed the Wades living there, there was also support from other individuals throughout Louisville.

Below you will find newspaper clippings containing letters to the editor of the Louisville Courier Journal concerning the events discussed. The clippings highlight the polarized opinions of Louisville residents. As you look at the materials and work through the discussion questions with your group, think about the context in which these were created and consider what unique knowledge and perspective we can gain from them. 

Brainstorm. List 10-20 words or phrases about the documents/items. Start with the details of the document, like topic, names, publication, etc. What do you find interesting? Strange? Do you find anything appealing or disturbing? Things you don’t understand or are unfamiliar with?

Bias. Identify some biases in play. What do we know or what can we infer about the speakers? Whose perspective is represented? Who is the target audience? 

Context. Think about the when and why of this source. What gives their voice authority? What should we be wary of? What makes this a valuable resource to the topic?

Language. How are these topics and perspectives sensationalized through the language used? Identify some key words or phrases that are meant to elicit strong reactions.

Place. Think about the places referenced, using a map if needed. Where are these places? Where are the newspapers created and distributed? What does that tell us about the audience?  

Reflections. What can we learn from these materials? How is our understanding of the topic enhanced through these first-hand recollections? What are some avenues for further research on this topic? Why does this matter?