Tarring and feathering

The Bostonians Paying the Excise-man, or Tarring and Feathering (1774)

The alternative of Williamsburg, 1775

The tarring and feathering of Mrs Lowry

Tarring and Feathering was a form of public humiliation and punishment used to enforce unofficial justice or revenge. It was never legally sanctioned by any government but was practiced by informal groups. The process involved covering an individual with hot tar followed by feathers. This act was often carried out by vigilante groups to punish or intimidate individuals who were seen as wrongdoers or outsiders within a community.

History

The origins of tarring and feathering are difficult to trace, but the practice was used in medieval Europe and became more common in the 18th century, particularly in Britain and the American colonies. It was often associated with the American Revolution, where it was used by both Patriots and Loyalists as a form of mob justice against those who opposed their political views.

Procedure

The procedure of tarring and feathering could vary, but it typically involved heating tar until it was liquified. The tar was then applied to the naked body of the victim, either with a brush or by pouring it directly onto them. After the tar was applied, feathers were thrown onto the sticky substance, adhering to the body. The tar used was generally pine tar, a substance more commonly used for waterproofing ropes and ships. It was not as hot as modern industrial tar and was unlikely to cause serious burns, but the process was still extremely painful and humiliating.

Social and Political Implications

Tarring and feathering was more than just a physical punishment; it served as a powerful tool of social ostracism. Victims were often paraded through the streets, further enhancing the public humiliation. The act was a clear message from the community or group performing the punishment, indicating that the victim's actions or presence was not tolerated. It was used against tax collectors, political figures, and others who were seen as betraying community interests.

Decline

The practice began to decline in the 19th century as societies moved towards more formalized systems of justice. However, isolated incidents of tarring and feathering were reported into the early 20th century, particularly in rural areas.

In Popular Culture

Tarring and feathering has been depicted in various works of literature and film, often to highlight the brutality of mob justice or the plight of individuals facing community ostracism.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

From a modern perspective, tarring and feathering is considered a form of cruel and unusual punishment. It violates principles of human rights and dignity and would be illegal under current laws in most jurisdictions.

Gallery

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  John Meintz, punished during World War I

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  John Meintz, punished during World War I

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  Huck Finn Travelling by Rail

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  A tarred and feathered man standing on hands and feet

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  Mother's Angel (1920)

See Also

• Lynching
• Public Humiliation
• Vigilante Justice

External Links

• History of Tarring and Feathering - History.com

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