Zoot-Suit Flashcards
What is the time period of the events depicted?
1942 - 1971.
What exactly occurs at the Sleepy Lagoon?
Louie and Jose were already at the party, but Louie was kicked out for causing trouble. Meanwhile, the 38th Street kids were jumped earlier in the day and are now driving around looking for their attackers for revenge. On Jose’s way out, he is jumped by Louie and in the fight Jose is stabbed and left in the bushes. The 38th Street kids finally arrive on the scene, having heard the noises from the party, and stumble upon Jose’s body in the shadows. The girls tend to Jose as best they can while the boys cause a fight, soon after everyone leaves and Jose’s dead body is left in the bushes.
What was the cause of the death of Jose Diaz?
He was beat and stabbed.
Describe some irregularities that occurred during the Sleepy Lagoon trial.
The defendants weren’t allowed to change their clothes or clean up.
The defendants were beat while they were being held.
The judge helped the prosecutors.
What finally put a stop to the Zoot Suit Riots?
On June 8th 1943, military officially make the city of LA off limits to all service men.
The wearing of Zoot Suits in the city are banned as well.
What was the outcome of the Sleepy Lagoon Trial?
17 of the 38th Street boys were sent to jail and the girls became wards of the state and sent to the Ventura School for Girls.
What became of Hank/Henry Levas?
He was still defiant the day he was released and showed this by wearing a Zoot Suit. He was also in and out of jail for the rest of his life and died in an East LA bar in 1981.
What role did the LAPD play during the Zoot Suit Riots?
The LAPD did not participate in the containment or disbanding of any of the riots. After the rioters had already dispersed, they simply picked up the remaining victims and arrested them.
What type of support did the defendants receive during and after the trial?
Political parties, officials, communities and celebrities were raising money for the boys appeal as well as helping their families and the guards in their jail would even share their own personal food with the defendants.
How did the Zoot Suiters retaliate/defend themselves during the riots?
They defended themselves with anything they had (fists, bats, etc.) and fought back.
What was the significance of Lorena Encinas?
She knew who killed Jose Diaz, but did not tell.
