The Thin Veneer of Civilization

During the recent go around with the racial tension from the Trayvon Martin shooting, Florida as well as the nation realized what really thin ice America is skating on these days. With unemployment off the chart, and foreclosures and homelessness on the rise, many Americans have gotten to the point where they have a hair trigger. For the readers who do not remember the L.A. riots of 1992, you will find this commentary to be an interesting read on how it all went down. Here are some of the highlights.


quote:


 Looters had stolen cars to use as battering rams to break into liquor stores and electronics shops.  People even shot at firefighters who responded to the many fires.  Armed escort was needed for the fire trucks...


...Gang members, up by Noon after a long night of looting, had a different reaction.  They threatened our troops, flashing gang signs, thick gold chains hanging off their necks...  


...Despite their shops and liquor stores being frequently singled out for arson and looting, the Korean immigrants made full use of their uniquely American Second Amendment rights, protecting themselves and their property during a multi-day breakdown in law and order...


...There are two valuable lessons from the 1992 Los Angeles riots.  First, civilization has a very, very thin veneer that can break down suddenly and with little warning (there were sympathy riots up and down the West Coast and unrest in other urban areas).  Second, when civilization does break down, law enforcement is virtually powerless for a time during which a judicious exercise of one’s Second Amendment rights may be all that stands between you and destructive anarchy.