Liberty Lost: Episode Summary – "What to Listen to Next: American Scandal – The Woman Who Sold Babies"
In this compelling episode of Liberty Lost, Wondery's host T. J. Raphael introduces listeners to a recommended listen, American Scandal, specifically highlighting its season titled "The Woman Who Sold Babies." This summary delves into the intricate narrative surrounding Georgia Tann, a pivotal figure in the dark history of adoption practices in America.
Introduction to American Scandal
The episode opens with Lindsey Graham, representing Wondery, expressing gratitude to Liberty Lost listeners and segueing into a recommendation for American Scandal. She emphasizes the harrowing true story of Georgia Tann, whose manipulative actions within the adoption system have left lasting scars on countless families.
"Georgia Tann didn't help children find new homes out of the goodness of her heart. She was stealing babies from happy families and selling them for profit."
— Lindsey Graham (00:00)
Unveiling the Darkness: Governor Gordon Browning's Press Conference
The narrative shifts to Nellie Kenyon, a seasoned reporter for the Nashville Tennessean, covering a pivotal moment in September 1950. Tennessee Governor Gordon Browning announces a full-scale investigation into the Tennessee Children's Home Society, revealing the existence of a black market adoption ring.
"There can be nothing more revolting than the trafficking of babies for profit. That's proven to be the case in Memphis."
— Governor Gordon Browning (01:39)
Kenyon's probing questions uncover the depth of the scandal, focusing scrutiny on Georgia Tann, the head of the society.
"Our attention is focused solely on the Memphis branch of the Tennessee Children's Home Society and its head, Ms. Georgia Tann."
— Governor Gordon Browning (04:15)
Georgia Tann: From Idealism to Exploitation
American Scandal delves into the life of Georgia Tann, tracing her journey from a dedicated social worker to a manipulative orchestrator of illegal adoptions. Initially portrayed as a socially conscious individual striving to find loving homes for orphaned children, Tann's true motives reveal a pursuit of wealth and power.
Early Life and Career Aspirations
The story begins in 1915 with young Georgia Tann assisting her father, Judge George Tann, in his duties. Despite societal expectations to pursue a conventional path, Georgia aspires to become a lawyer, aiming to make a meaningful impact similar to her father's. However, her father dismisses her aspirations, labeling law as "not a respectable profession for a young lady."
"I want to be a lawyer. A lawyer? You've already taught me so much."
— Georgia Tann (12:45)
Entry into the Tennessee Children's Home Society
In 1924, driven by unresolved ambitions and personal experiences, Tann joins the Tennessee Children's Home Society (TCHS) in Memphis. Her role as a fundraiser provides her with the platform to influence adoption practices, where she begins to manipulate the system for personal gain.
"The more children we help, the less it costs the taxpayer."
— Georgia Tann (18:30)
Manipulating the Adoption System
Tann's methods involve abductions and coercion, targeting vulnerable families and children. She leverages her connections with influential figures, including Boss Edward Crump, to shield her operations from scrutiny and ensure their success.
"With the help of Boss Crump and my other influential friends, I can reshape adoption in America."
— Georgia Tann (29:50)
The Web of Deceit and Control
Georgia Tann's ascent within the TCHS is marked by strategic alliances and unethical practices. By end of 1925, she controls all adoptions in Memphis, effectively turning the society into her personal empire.
Exploiting Trust and Influence
Tann's approach involves building relationships with powerful individuals and using their influence to perpetuate her scheme. Her methodical dismantling of ethical boundaries reflects her transformation from a social worker to a criminal mastermind.
"Georgia Tann is a child abductor. Not everyone got to receive such precious offerings from her."
— Nellie Kenyon (35:20)
Consequences and Unraveling the Scandal
As Tann's operations expand, the atrocities committed become more blatant, leading to public outcry and legal repercussions. The investigation spearheaded by Governor Browning exposes the extensive corruption and the sheer scale of the adoption racket orchestrated by Tann.
"By the time her crimes were exposed decades later, she had made a fortune and destroyed hundreds of families."
— Nellie Kenyon (40:00)
Legacy and Impact on Adoption Practices
The fallout from Tann's actions underscores significant shifts in adoption laws and practices, highlighting the need for stringent oversight and ethical standards in child welfare systems.
"Without any checks or accountability, she will reshape adoption in America."
— Nellie Kenyon (38:45)
Conclusion and Recommendations
Liberty Lost concludes by reaffirming the importance of understanding historical injustices to prevent their recurrence. Listeners are encouraged to explore American Scandal for a deeper dive into Georgia Tann's life and the systemic failures that allowed her to perpetrate her crimes.
"If you'd like to learn more about Georgia Tann and the Tennessee Children's Home Society, we recommend the book The Baby Thief by Barbara Bazant Raymond and Babies for Sale by Linda Tollett Austin."
— Lindsey Graham (41:09)
Final Thoughts
This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities within institutional systems and the dire consequences of unchecked power. By shedding light on Georgia Tann's manipulative tactics, Liberty Lost and American Scandal collectively advocate for transparency and reform in adoption practices, ensuring the protection and well-being of the most vulnerable members of society.