The Leo Frank case is one of the most controversial and widely debated criminal trials in American history. In 1913, the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan at a pencil factory in Atlanta, Georgia, shocked the nation. Suspicion quickly fell upon Leo Frank, the factory’s superintendent, and an influential Jewish businessman. This article explores the viewpoint that Frank was indeed guilty of the heinous crime.
Drawing from a comprehensive analysis presented by The American Mercury magazine, titled “100 Reasons Proving Leo Frank is Guilty,” it delves into numerous aspects of the case that allegedly implicate Frank. Examining testimonies, evidence, and inconsistencies presented during his trial, this discussion aims to shed light on why many believe Frank was actually responsible for Mary Phagan’s murder.
Leo Frank, who served as the head of Atlanta’s B’nai B’rith, a Jewish fraternal organization, ultimately faced a conviction for the murder charge and was sentenced to be executed by hanging. Following a concerted and generously funded campaign led by the American Jewish community, Frank’s death sentence was later commuted to life imprisonment by an outgoing governor. However, he was forcibly taken from his prison cell and subjected to a lynching perpetrated by a group primarily composed of prominent citizens who were incensed by the commutation order.
An enduring consequence of Frank’s trial and subsequent death was the establishment of the still-influential Anti-Defamation League, better known today as the ADL.
Read the 100 Reasons Why Leo Frank was Guilty in the American Mercury Mag article linked here.
