In 150 year old case, Rhode Island confronts its anti-Catholic pas

[Pax_et_Bonum]

In 150 year old case, Rhode Island confronts its anti-Catholic past
By Marianne Medlin
3 Comments
Salem, Mass., May 12, 2011 / 05:55 am (CNA).- Rhode Island lawmakers voted last week to pardon an Irish Catholic man they say was wrongfully executed in 1845. The decision closes an ugly chapter in the long history of discrimination against Catholics in the U.S.

“Anti-Catholicism was certainly one of the first religious prejudices brought to the new world, and it became widespread” in the 19th century, according to Nancy Schultz, Ph.D of Salem State University in Massachusetts.

Schultz was commenting on the May 4 decision by the Rhode Island legislature to pardon John Gordon – a 29 year-old Irish immigrant who was hanged for a murder many say he didn’t commit.

Gordon was convicted in 1843 and executed two years later for allegedly killing a wealthy Rhode Island mill owner who had political connections.

catholicnewsagency.com/news/in-150-year-old-case-rhode-island-confronts-its-anti-catholic-past/

 

[TempleofTheSoul]

This shows the anti-Catholicism that was rampant in the early years of the USA. Not too many people know about the anti-Catholic groups like the Know Nothing party who at times violently campaigned against Catholic’s.

I am currently reading a book on the life of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos who served as a priest in the mid 1800’s when the Know Nothing party was at its height. The book is called “Cheerful Ascetic: The life of Francis Xavier Seelos”. It’s a wonderful read.

God bless