Bio

Bartolomeo Vanzetti was born on June 11, 1888, in Villafalletto, Italy. He grew up in a poor family and was the son of a fishmonger. From a young age, he learned the trade of selling fish, helping his father in their small business. Vanzetti was known for his strong character and personal convictions.

In 1908, seeking better opportunities, Bartolomeo emigrated to the United States. He settled in Massachusetts, where he worked various jobs to support himself. Initially, he continued his work as a fishmonger and became known in local markets for his skills. Over time, he also became involved with the anarchist movement, influenced by the writings of prominent anarchists of that era.

Vanzetti was passionate about his beliefs and dedicated himself to advocating for workers' rights and social change. He attended rallies and gatherings, often expressing his views on justice and equality. His political activities placed him in the circle of Italian anarchists.

By the time of his arrest in 1920, Vanzetti had established himself as a known figure among local anarchists. He was believed to be involved in radical politics, which would later play a significant role in his trials. His early life experiences shaped his views and laid the groundwork for his future actions.

Murder Story

On April 15, 1920, a robbery occurred at the Slater-Morrill Shoe Company in South Braintree, Massachusetts. The victims of this crime were Frederick Parmenter, a paymaster, and Alessandro Berardelli, a security guard. Both men were shot during the incident. The total amount stolen was around $15,776.73.

Police began investigating the robbery-murder immediately. They focused on known local anarchists, including Bartolomeo Vanzetti and Nicola Sacco, due to their political beliefs and radical activities. Both men were arrested on May 5, 1920, in Brockton, Massachusetts. They were found carrying pistols, anarchist literature, and, in Vanzetti's case, shotgun shells.

Vanzetti was tried first for a robbery in Bridgewater that took place on December 24, 1919. He was convicted. Sacco and Vanzetti were subsequently tried together for the Braintree crimes. The trial was marked by controversy, focusing on eyewitness accounts and forensic evidence. On July 1, 1920, the jury found them guilty of robbery and murder.

After a series of appeals over the next six years, the convictions were upheld. Despite protests and claims of injustice, Vanzetti and Sacco were executed by electrocution on August 23, 1927. Their executions ignited a global outcry and debate over their guilt, treatment during the trial, and broader issues of justice and discrimination. Celestino Madeiros, who later confessed to the murders, was executed on the same day for a different crime.