This paper provides a rhetorical analysis of a protest action, namely, the mobilization and action of black citizens in Seattle, Washington, in reaction to the 1965 shooting of a black man (Robert L. Reese) by a local police officer. A description of actions during this time, as reported by two Seattle newspapers, is provided. An extrinsic…

Claims that Vietnam War protestors were not instrumental in bringing it to an end. Contends that their rhetorical strategies may have actually harmed their cause, and that Middle Americans only became disenchanted when the oft-promised victory in Vietnam proved elusive and the casualties began to mount. (MS)