The Frankfurt School and it's "long march" through American Institutions

                                                                    

The Frankfurt School, also known as the Institute for Social Research, was a group of scholars, intellectuals, and political activists based in Frankfurt, Germany, in the early 20th century. The group was founded in 1923 by Carl Grünberg, a Marxist legal scholar and philosopher, and was initially affiliated with the University of Frankfurt. The Frankfurt School was a multidisciplinary research institute focused on critical theory, a philosophical approach that seeks to understand and critique society, culture, and politics.

The origins of the Frankfurt School can be traced back to the aftermath of World War I, when there was a sense of disillusionment and crisis in Europe. Many intellectuals and scholars sought new ways to understand and address the social and political problems that had led to the war. The Frankfurt School emerged as a response to this crisis, and its members were committed to developing a new form of social and political analysis that would be more attuned to the complexities of modern society.

One of the key figures in the Frankfurt School was Max Horkheimer, who became the institute's director in 1930. Horkheimer was interested in exploring how society was shaped by the forces of capitalism, imperialism, and totalitarianism. He and other members of the Frankfurt School believed that these forces were leading to the suppression of individual freedom and the erosion of social justice.

The Frankfurt School significantly influenced American institutions and culture in the 20th century. Many members, including Horkheimer, fled Nazi persecution in the 1930s and emigrated to the United States. They brought with them the ideas and approaches of the Frankfurt School, which were influential in developing critical race theory in the United States.

The Frankfurt School's ideas profoundly impacted several fields, including sociology, philosophy, cultural studies, and political science. They also influenced the New Left movement in the United States, which sought to challenge the time's dominant political and cultural forces.

In conclusion, the Frankfurt School was a group of scholars, intellectuals, and activists based in Frankfurt, Germany, in the early 20th century. Its members were committed to developing a new form of social and political analysis that would be more attuned to the complexities of modern society. The ideas of the Frankfurt School significantly influenced American institutions and culture in the 20th century and continue to be influential in many fields today with Europe's brand of Marxist Ideology.

Forgotten Legends Series: Dr. Gordon E. Perrigard, MD

 

Dr. Gordon E. Perrigard was a medical officer in the United States military during World War II who was also trained in hand-to-hand combat. He was a strong advocate for the importance of such training for soldiers, believing it could give them an advantage in close-quarters combat situations.

Perrigard learned various hand-to-hand combat techniques in the military, including boxing, wrestling, and judo. He believed that a combination of these disciplines was necessary to be effective in a real-life fight. In addition to physical training, Perrigard also emphasized the importance of mental preparation and the will to win in hand-to-hand combat.

Perrigard's views on hand-to-hand combat were not universally accepted, and he faced criticism from some quarters for advocating for such training. However, he remained a strong advocate for its importance, and his views eventually gained acceptance within the military.

Perrigard's efforts to promote hand-to-hand combat training were not limited to the military. He also wrote articles and gave lectures on the subject to civilian audiences, hoping to spread his belief in the importance of such training to a broader audience.

In addition to his work in hand-to-hand combat, Perrigard was also a respected medical officer, serving with distinction during World War II. He received numerous accolades for his service, including the Bronze Star and the Legion of Merit.

Perrigard's contributions to the field of hand-to-hand combat have had a lasting impact, and his views on the importance of such training are still widely respected today. His work continues to be studied by military personnel and martial arts practitioners worldwide, and he is remembered as a pioneer in hand-to-hand combat.

Tradewinds Time Capsule: Witchcraft in Currituck,1703

On July 25, 1703, Thomas Bouthier filed a legal complaint against Susannah Evans of Currituck, alleging that she had bewitched his wife Deborah and caused her death. The case went to trial, with Cornelius Jones, a well-known sea captain, serving as foreman of the grand jury.

Captain Jones, who had been well informed of the witchcraft trials in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1692, was determined to avoid a similar outcome in this case. He convinced the jurors to dismiss the charges of witchcraft against Susannah, likely motivated by a desire to avoid the hysteria and turmoil that had characterized the Salem trials.

Despite being found not guilty, it seems that Susannah was not fully exonerated in the eyes of the community. According to reports, the townsfolk kept their distance from her, suggesting that the stigma of being accused of witchcraft persisted even after the trial.

This case illustrates the enduring belief in the power of witchcraft in early colonial America, as well as some individuals' willingness to use witchcraft accusations to settle personal grievances. It also highlights the role of influential figures, like Captain Jones, in shaping the outcome of such cases and the importance of due process in ensuring justice is served.

The Chapman stance for Pistol shooting

                                                               

The Chapman stance is a popular shooting stance used by pistol shooters. It is named after Ray Chapman, a police officer who developed the stance in the 1950s. The Chapman stance is known for its stability and accuracy, making it a favourite among law enforcement, military personnel, and competitive shooters.

To assume the Chapman stance:

1. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant foot slightly forward.
2. Bend your knees slightly, keeping your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
3. You can bring your pistol to your firing position with your arms extended and your wrists locked. Your dominant hand should grip the pistol firmly, with your thumb and index finger wrapped around the front and back of the grip.

Your non-dominant hand should support the pistol from underneath, with your thumb and index finger wrapped around the bottom of the grip.

In the Chapman stance, the pistol is held at arm's length, with the barrel pointed slightly downward. This allows the shooter to quickly align the sights with the target and maintain a consistent sight picture. The shooter should also keep a proper cheek weld, which is the practice of positioning the cheek against the stock of a rifle or the top of the pistol grip to properly align the eye with the sights.

One of the key benefits of the Chapman stance is its stability. The shooter's body is balanced and braced, which helps to reduce recoil and improve accuracy. The extended arms also help to absorb some of the recoils, further reducing muzzle rise and helping the shooter stay on target.

The Chapman stance is also versatile, as it can be modified to fit the shooter's body type and shooting style. For example, some shooters prefer to have their feet further apart for added stability, while others prefer a more upright posture. The key is finding a comfortable stance that allows the shooter to maintain proper technique.

Despite its many advantages, the Chapman stance has its drawbacks. One of the primary criticisms of the Chapman stance is that it leaves the shooter vulnerable to counterattacks. The extended arms and locked wrists can make it difficult for the shooter to defend themselves if attacked from the sides or behind. Shooters need to be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to adapt to changing situations.

The Chapman stance is a solid choice for pistol shooting, offering a good balance of stability and accuracy. With proper practice and training, shooters can master the Chapman stance and use it effectively in various shooting situations.

Interacting with Police

                                                          

Suppose you are a concealed carry licensee in North Carolina and interact with a police officer on the sidewalk. In that case, there are specific steps you should take to ensure a safe and smooth encounter.

First and foremost, it is essential to remain calm and comply with the officer's requests. When an officer approaches you, you should follow their instructions and answer their questions truthfully. If you are asked for identification, you should provide your driver's license or other government-issued identification and your concealed carry permit if you have one.

If you are carrying a firearm, you must let the officer know as soon as possible. In North Carolina, it is not required to inform an officer that you are carrying a concealed firearm unless you are asked directly, but it is generally considered good practice to do so. When informing the officer that you are carrying a firearm, it is vital to do so in a non-threatening manner and to follow the officer's instructions on how to safely handle the firearm.

If you are stopped while driving, you should remain in your vehicle unless the officer instructs you to do otherwise. If you are asked to exit the vehicle, you should do so slowly and follow the officer's instructions.

It is also important to remember that you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney if you are arrested or detained.

The common law reason for these interactions is based on the principle of respect for authority and the importance of maintaining order and safety in society. Police officers are responsible for enforcing the laws and maintaining public safety. Citizens must cooperate with them to ensure they can carry out their duties effectively.

The history of these interactions can be traced back to the earliest forms of organized societies, where rulers or leaders were responsible for maintaining order and enforcing the laws. As societies evolved, the role of law enforcement became more formalized, and the concept of respect for authority became more ingrained in the legal system. Today, the principle of respect for authority is reflected in laws and practices that require citizens to cooperate with law enforcement officers and follow their instructions.

A smash-and -grab: Plan ahead and follow-up

                                                                   

A smash-and-grab robbery is a type of theft that involves breaking into a store or business and stealing goods or money in a short amount of time. These types of robberies can be particularly stressful and dangerous for store owners, as they often involve the use of force and can physically harm those present.

If you are a storeowner and find yourself amid a smash-and-grab robbery, it is crucial to remain calm and take the following actions:

1. Stay safe: Your safety should be your top priority. Try to find a safe hiding place, such as a back room or secure area. If you cannot find a safe place to hide, try to remain out of sight and avoid confrontations with the robbers.

2. Call for help: As soon as you can, call the police and report the robbery. Provide as much information as possible, including the store's location, the number of robbers, and any descriptions of the suspects.

3. Secure the scene: If possible, try to secure the robbery scene by locking doors and windows and activating any security systems or alarms. This will help prevent the robbers from escaping and may deter them from continuing the robbery.

4. Cooperate with the robbers: If they demand money or goods, try to comply with their requests. Do not resist or try to fight back, as this can escalate the situation and increase the risk of violence.

5. Document the incident: Once the robbery is over and the suspects have fled, try to document as much information as possible about the incident. This may include taking photos of any damage, making a list of stolen items, and writing down any descriptions or details about the suspects.

6. Review your security measures: After a smash-and-grab robbery, reviewing and assessing your store's security measures is essential. This may involve upgrading security systems, installing additional cameras or alarms, or implementing additional employee training.

7. Support your employees: The aftermath of a robbery can be emotionally and mentally traumatic for employees. Providing support and resources to help them cope with the incident is vital. This may include offering counselling services or time off work to allow them to process their emotions.

By following these steps, storeowners can take control of the situation and minimize the risk of harm during a smash-and-grab robbery. It is also important to remember that robberies can happen at any time, so it is essential to be prepared and have a plan in case of an emergency.

Your interaction with Police at a traffic stop

                                                                 

 

If you are a North Carolina concealed carry licensee pulled over by a police officer during a traffic stop, it is essential to remain calm and follow the officer's instructions. Here are some tips on how to interact with the police appropriately:

1. Keep your hands visible: When the officer approaches your vehicle, keep your hands on the steering wheel where they can be seen. This will help the officer feel more at ease and reduce the possibility of misunderstandings.

2. Inform the officer that you have a concealed carry permit: When the officer asks for your license and registration, let them know you have a concealed carry permit. It is essential to inform the officer of this because they must know you are legally allowed to carry a firearm.

3. Follow the officer's instructions: Do so if the officer asks you to step out of the vehicle. If the officer asks you to hand over your firearm, do so. It is essential to follow the officer's instructions because they are trained to handle potentially dangerous situations, and it is necessary to respect their authority.

4. Be polite and respectful: It is important to remember that the officer is just doing their job, and they are not there to cause you any trouble. Be polite and respectful, even if you disagree with the officer's actions.

5. Do not argue with the officer: If you feel you have been mistreated, it is important to remember that arguing with the officer will not help the situation. Instead, calmly explain your perspective and try to find a resolution.

6. If you feel that your rights have been violated: If you think that your rights have been violated during the traffic stop, you have the right to file a complaint with the police department. It is important to remember that you should only do this if you feel that your rights have been violated, as making false complaints can be harmful to both the police and yourself.

Overall, it is essential to remember that the police are there to keep the community safe and to protect your rights. Following these tips and remaining calm and respectful can help ensure a smooth and secure interaction during a traffic stop.

Smith & Wesson: The Governor

 

The Smith and Wesson Governor is a revolver designed for self-defence and recreational shooting. It has a unique feature that allows it to shoot both .45 ACP and .410 bore shotgun shells, making it a versatile firearm that can be used in various situations.

One of the main benefits of the Governor is its versatility. The ability to shoot both .45 ACP and .410 bore shotgun shells allow the user to choose the most appropriate ammunition for the situation. The .45 ACP is a powerful calibre well-suited for self-defence, while the .410-bore shotgun shells can be used to shoot at longer distances or take down more prominent targets.

Regarding reliability, the Governor has a reputation for being a reliable firearm. It has a six-shot cylinder and a double-action trigger, allowing the user to quickly and accurately fire multiple shots. The Governor also has a durable stainless steel construction, which makes it resistant to rust and wear.

One potential drawback of the Governor is its size and weight. It is a larger revolver and may not be suitable for those who prefer a more compact firearm. Additionally, the importance of the Governor may make it more challenging to carry for extended periods.

Overall, the Smith and Wesson Governor is a reliable and versatile firearm well-suited for self-defence and recreational shooting. It is famous for those who want a firearm that can adapt to various situations and shoot multiple calibres. However, it is essential to carefully consider the size and weight of the Governor before making a decision, as it may only be suitable for some.

.45 APC Calibre has stood the test of time

                                                             

The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) calibre is popular for self-defence firearms. Known for its stopping power and reliability, the .45 ACP has been trusted by law enforcement and military personnel for decades.

One of the main reasons the .45 ACP is so effective as a self-defence round is its ability to deliver a significant amount of energy to the target. This energy transfer can disrupt the central nervous system and stop an attacker in their tracks. The .45 ACP is also known for its ability to penetrate through barriers, such as clothing and drywall, which can be important in a self-defence situation.

Regarding reliability, the .45 ACP has a long history of use in firearms carried by military and law enforcement personnel. These firearms are subjected to rigorous testing, and the .45 ACP has consistently performed well under pressure. Additionally, the .45 ACP has a relatively low recoil, which makes it easier for shooters to control and aim accurately, even under stress.

One potential drawback of the .45 ACP is that it can be more expensive than some other calibres. Additionally, it can be more difficult to find in some areas, as it is less widely used than in some different calibres. However, for those willing to pay a little extra and do some research to find a reliable source for .45 ACP ammunition, the benefits of this calibre are well worth it.

When choosing a self-defence firearm, it's essential to consider several factors, including calibre, reliability, and personal comfort and proficiency. The .45 ACP is a tried-and-true calibre proven effective in self-defence situations. If you choose a .45 ACP firearm, practice regularly to maintain your skills and become comfortable and confident with your selected firearm.

Forgotten Legends Series: Lt. Colonel Francois D'Eliscu

                                                           

Francois D'Eliscu was a hand-to-hand combat trainer during World War II. He was known for his expertise in close-quarters combat and his ability to teach soldiers effective fighting techniques that could be used in battle.

D'Eliscu was born in France and learned martial arts and self-defence techniques. He joined the French military and eventually rose to become a high-ranking officer. During World War II, he was recruited to train soldiers in hand-to-hand combat, as it was recognized that this type of fighting would be crucial in the close quarters of trench warfare.

D'Eliscu was known for his rigorous training methods, which focused on practical techniques that could be quickly learned and used in the field. He believed in the importance of physical conditioning and mental preparedness, and he worked to instill these values in his students.

D'Eliscu's training program was highly effective, and he became well-respected among the soldiers he trained. He taught them various techniques, including boxing, wrestling, and judo, and emphasized the importance of using weapons and improvised tools in hand-to-hand combat.

Throughout his career, D'Eliscu continued to refine and develop his training program, and he became a respected authority on hand-to-hand combat. He travelled widely, teaching soldiers and civilians alike, and his techniques became widely known and respected throughout the military community.

Despite his success, D'Eliscu remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He believed that hand-to-hand combat was necessary for anyone who wanted to be prepared for the dangers of war, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that his students were as well-trained as possible.

Today, D'Eliscu is remembered as a pioneering hand-to-hand combat trainer and a respected authority on close-quarters combat. His contributions to the field continue to be recognized and respected by martial artists and military personnel worldwide.

The Weaver Stance for Pistol shooting

                                                               

The weaver stance is a popular pistol technique named after its developer, Jack Weaver. It is a two-handed stance that emphasizes a robust, stable platform for the shooter, with the dominant hand gripping the pistol firmly and the support hand providing additional stability and balance.

To assume the weaver stance, the shooter stands with their feet shoulder-width apart and their body weight evenly distributed. The dominant hand grips the pistol with a firm "pistol grip" hold, with the thumb and index finger wrapped around the front and the remaining fingers wrapped around the back of the grip. The support hand wraps around the dominant hand, with the thumbs locked together for added stability.

One of the key benefits of the weaver stance is its ability to absorb recoil, allowing the shooter to maintain accuracy and control even after multiple shots have been fired. This is achieved by using the support hand to push against the dominant hand, creating a counterforce that helps mitigate the impact of recoil.

The weaver stance promotes good sight alignment and sight picture, as the shooter can keep both eyes open and focused on the target while shooting. This allows for faster and more accurate shots, as the shooter can maintain an apparent visual reference of their target even as the pistol moves.

In addition to its effectiveness in shooting, the weaver stance is also relatively easy to learn and adapt to, making it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced shooters. It is also highly adaptable, as the shooter can easily adjust grip and hand placement to accommodate different shooting scenarios and positions.

Overall, the weaver stance is a reliable and effective pistol shooting technique, offering a strong and stable platform for accurate and controlled shots. While it may take some practice to master, the weaver stance is a valuable skill for any shooter looking to improve their accuracy and control with a pistol.