Introduction: The Dust Bowl Migration

In the early 1930s, the Great Plains of the United States were ravaged by severe dust storms, a phenomenon later termed the "Dust Bowl." These relentless storms made the region nearly uninhabitable, decimating crops, homes, and the health of thousands. Oral histories from individuals who lived through this period vividly capture the terror and devastation. One participant recounts, "The dust was relentless and inescapable. It covered every inch of people's homes...—[04:04].

The Exodus to California

Facing hopelessness, millions were compelled to abandon their farms, embarking on one of the largest internal migrations in American history. Over 300,000 migrants journeyed to California, seeking refuge and opportunity in what they believed to be a land of prosperity. The iconic Route 66 became the main artery for these "Okies" and other displaced families, symbolizing both hope and hardship. As historian Elisa Minoff notes, "By 1942, half a million people had moved out of the Plains states and over 300,000 of them made their way to California...—[23:03].

James Davis: Rise of a Controversial LAPD Chief

Amidst this influx, James "Two Gun" Davis emerged as a pivotal figure in Los Angeles. Appointed as the interim Chief of Police in 1926, Davis quickly modernized the LAPD, enforcing standardized uniforms and rigorous marksmanship training. His aggressive tactics against vice and drug dens earned him both fame and notoriety. One Oral History Participant describes him as "a suave, tough, and authoritarian man...—[11:03].

The Bum Blockade: An Attempt to Halt Migration

As the Dust Bowl migrants continued to pour into California during the Great Depression, local leaders grew increasingly anxious about the strain on resources and potential social unrest. In response, Chief Davis orchestrated what became known as the "Bum Blockade" in February 1936. Deploying 135 officers along California's extensive borders, Davis aimed to prevent the entry of migrants deemed undesirable. A surveyor's account highlights the subjective enforcement of this policy: "If it's a rundown car, it might be stopped. A man traveling alone is more likely to be stopped...—[37:51].

Public and Political Backlash

The blockade faced significant opposition from various quarters. Media outlets, neighboring states, and advocacy groups criticized the policy as unconstitutional and discriminatory. Notably, California State Senator Martin derided it as "dammable, absurd, and asinine...—[43:10]. Additionally, grassroots movements led by organizations like the ACLU began challenging the legality and morality of the blockade, further eroding its support.

Legal Challenges and the Downfall of the Blockade

The legal system ultimately proved unfavorable for Davis's blockade. In March 1936, California's Attorney General declared the blockade unconstitutional, stating, "Organized government, state, county or municipal should not attempt the achievement of a laudable purpose by unlawful means...—[47:18]. Coupled with mounting public dissent and financial burdens, the blockade was quietly dismantled by early April 1936, marking its swift demise after barely two months.

Legacy and Historical Impact

Though the Bum Blockade was short-lived and largely ineffective, its legacy persisted. It highlighted the malleable definitions of belonging and the ease with which policies could target vulnerable populations during times of crisis. The eventual Supreme Court decision in Edwards v. California (1941) underscored the unconstitutionality of such exclusionary practices, ensuring the protection of interstate migration rights for U.S. citizens. Historian Mark Wilde reflects, "The blockade shows the malleable definition of who deserves to belong or not belong in a community...—[51:07].

James Davis's career eventually ended in disgrace, revealing the darker facets of his tenure as LAPD Chief. However, the Bum Blockade serves as a historical lesson on the complexities of migration, societal fear, and the balance between security and civil liberties.

Conclusion

"California's 'Bum Blockade'" delves deep into a tumultuous chapter of American history, illustrating how economic despair and societal fears can lead to restrictive and controversial policies. Through personal testimonies, expert insights, and historical analysis, the episode paints a comprehensive picture of the challenges faced by migrants and the lengths to which authorities like James Davis went to control demographic changes. This episode of Throughline not only recounts past events but also prompts reflection on contemporary issues surrounding migration and public policy.

Notable Quotes:

• "You just felt like you were going to choke. You know, that dust was just, you couldn't hardly breathe. If you knew anything about the scripture, you know what it says that the moon will turn dark and this, that and the other. So we just had the feeling that this is the end of time. I thought that was the end of the world." — Oral History Participant [03:20]

• "He believes maybe there's some fights, maybe there's some people hurt, but if he gets those criminals, it's okay." — James Davis [11:43]

• "Organized government, state, county or municipal should not attempt the achievement of a laudable purpose by unlawful means." — California Attorney General [47:18]

• "The Constitution was framed upon the theory that the peoples of several states must sink or swim together. And that in the long run, prosperity and salvation are in union and not division." — Oral History Participant [50:36]