Research


Scope and Content Note

This series consists of photostatic copies of records subpoenaed from the national headquarters of the National Civil Liberties Bureau in New York City by the committee as part of its efforts to gather information and evidence about suspected radical groups and individuals. The records primarily consist of correspondence between the NCLB and individuals and organizations throughout the country relating to the legal defense of accused radicals and conscientious objectors. The records are divided into two subseries.

Subseries 1, Legal Defense Correspondence, 1917-1919, 3 cubic feet. This subseries principally consists of correspondence pertaining to the legal defense of individuals arrested for various types of radical activity whom the NCLB assisted as part of its efforts to protect civil liberties. There is correspondence relating to cases in 45 states and Puerto Rico. Numerous cases relate to conspiracy charges under the newly-enacted Federal Espionage Act and Sedition Act, and many of the writers asked the NCLB for help in obtaining legal counsel or for advice on cases. There is a large amount of correspondence between the NCLB and attorneys regarding handling of individual cases, with a number of letters dealing with the legal defense of Industrial Workers of the World members. Many letters are from the NCLB to individuals and organizations seeking financial contributions to help pay for accused radicals' legal fees. The records also include letters written by the NCLB to various government officials seeking additional protection of freedom of speech and civil liberties.

Subseries 2, Conscientious Objection Correspondence, 1917-1919, 2.25 cubic feet. This subseries consists principally of correspondence between the NCLB and conscientious objectors from 32 states and 12 Army camps. Because of its pacifist roots, the NCLB advised conscientious objectors on the procedures to declare their status and their rights once they did so, and the majority of the letters reflect this. Correspondence from the NCLB provides general information on procedures for reclassifying as a conscientious objector and in some cases offers specific information on legal help. Included are letters from the NCLB to the United States War Department on behalf of individuals applying for conscientious objector status. The records also include correspondence between the NCLB and organizations active in the pacifist movement such as the American Friends Service Committee, the American Liberty Defense League, the League for Democratic Control, and the People's Defense Council.