Blood relations: Collective memory, cultural trauma, and the prosecution and execution of timothy McVeigh

Abstract

Based on interviews with 27 victims’ family members and survivors, this chapter explores how memory of the Oklahoma City bombing was constructed through participation in groups formed after the bombing and participation in the trials of Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols. It first addresses the efficacy of a collective memory perspective. It then describes the mental context in which interviewees joined groups after the bombing, the recovery functions groups played, and their impact on punishment expectations. Next, it discusses a media-initiated involuntary relationship between McVeigh and interviewees. Finally, this chapter examines execution witnesses’ perceptions of communication with McVeigh in his trial and execution.

Citation

Lyneé Madeira, J. (2008), "Blood relations: Collective memory, cultural trauma, and the prosecution and execution of timothy McVeigh", Sarat, A. (Ed.) Studies in Law, Politics and Society (Studies in Law, Politics, and Society, Vol. 45), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Bingley, pp. 75-138. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1059-4337(08)45003-2

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