This video from The American Mercury’s centennial coverage explores the third week (August 11–17, 1913) of the Leo Frank trial, where the defense, led by top attorneys Luther Rosser and Reuben Arnold, faced the daunting task of clearing Frank of the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan at the National Pencil Company. Using the trial’s Brief of Evidence, it examines the defense’s response to the prosecution’s case, which included forensic evidence tying Frank to the crime scene and Jim Conley’s testimony about moving Phagan’s body. The episode also highlights the role of detective agencies like the Pinkertons, working openly with the police, and the Burns agency, allegedly covertly aiding Frank. Set in a climate of antisemitism accusations and public unrest, the trial led to Frank’s conviction, his 1915 lynching, and the Anti-Defamation League’s creation, leaving a profound impact on American history, as reflected in historical records.
