The Zoot Suit Riots Mexicans Military Violent Clash In LA June 1943 WWII Era
Defining Moments: The Zoot Suit Riots by Kevin Hillstrom.Ex Lib 240 pp The Zoot Suit Riots were a series of violent clashes in Los Angeles in June 1943, primarily involving U.S. servicemen and young Mexican Americans, many of whom wore zoot suits. Zoot suits were sought-after among young Mexican Americans and African Americans. They were seen as a symbol of rebellion and cultural identity. What caused the riots?Racial tensions and discrimination against Mexican Americans were high in Los Angeles during World War II. Servicemen viewed zoot suits as unpatriotic due to wartime fabric rationing. A clash between sailors and zoot-suiters sparked the violence. What happened during the riots?For several days, servicemen, off-duty police officers, and civilians attacked zoot-suiters, often beating them and stripping them of their clothing. The violence was widespread, and law enforcement did little to stop it. Many victims were young Mexican American men, but others were also targeted.