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The MOVE Organization: History, Conflicts, and Legacy

At a Glance

Title: The MOVE Organization: History, Conflicts, and Legacy

Total Categories: 5

Category Stats

  • Founding, Philosophy, and Early Development: 9 flashcards, 14 questions
  • The 1978 Powelton Village Standoff and the MOVE 9: 6 flashcards, 8 questions
  • The 1985 Osage Avenue Bombing and Immediate Aftermath: 10 flashcards, 13 questions
  • Investigations, Legal Outcomes, and Official Responses: 7 flashcards, 10 questions
  • Later Developments and Enduring Legacy: 19 flashcards, 21 questions

Total Stats

  • Total Flashcards: 51
  • True/False Questions: 34
  • Multiple Choice Questions: 32
  • Total Questions: 66

Instructions

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Welcome to Your Curriculum Command Center

This guide will turn you into a Wiki2web Studio power user. Let's unlock the features designed to give you back your weekends.

The Core Concept: What is a "Kit"?

Think of a Kit as your all-in-one digital lesson plan. It's a single, portable file that contains every piece of content for a topic: your subject categories, a central image, all your flashcards, and all your questions. The true power of the Studio is speed—once a kit is made (or you import one), you are just minutes away from printing an entire set of coursework.

Getting Started is Simple:

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Step 1: Laying the Foundation (The Authoring Tools)

This is where you build the core knowledge of your Kit. Use the left-side navigation panel to switch between these powerful authoring modules.

⚙️ Kit Manager: Your Kit's Identity

This is the high-level control panel for your project.

  • Kit Name: Give your Kit a clear title. This will appear on all your printed materials.
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Create a bank of questions to test knowledge. These questions are the engine for your worksheets and exams.

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🔗 Intelligent Mapper: The Smart Connection

This is the secret sauce of the Studio. The Mapper transforms your content from a simple list into an interconnected web of knowledge, automating the creation of amazing study guides.

  • Step 1: Select a question from the list on the left.
  • Step 2: In the right panel, click on every flashcard that contains a concept required to answer that question. They will turn green, indicating a successful link.
  • The Payoff: When you generate a Smart Study Guide, these linked flashcards will automatically appear under each question as "Related Concepts."

Step 2: The Magic (The Generator Suite)

You've built your content. Now, with a few clicks, turn it into a full suite of professional, ready-to-use materials. What used to take hours of formatting and copying-and-pasting can now be done in seconds.

🎓 Smart Study Guide Maker

Instantly create the ultimate review document. It combines your questions, the correct answers, your detailed explanations, and all the "Related Concepts" you linked in the Mapper into one cohesive, printable guide.

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Step 3: Saving and Collaborating

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Study Guide: The MOVE Organization: History, Conflicts, and Legacy

Study Guide: The MOVE Organization: History, Conflicts, and Legacy

Founding, Philosophy, and Early Development

MOVE was originally founded as the 'Christian Movement for Life' in the early 1970s, advocating for natural living principles.

Answer: True

MOVE was indeed founded in 1972 as the 'Christian Movement for Life,' advocating for natural living and nature's laws.

Related Concepts:

  • What is MOVE and when was it founded?: MOVE, originally known as the Christian Movement for Life, is a communal organization founded in 1972 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. It advocates for nature laws and natural living.

John Africa, the founder of MOVE, was a highly educated individual who wrote 'The Guidelines' himself.

Answer: False

John Africa was functionally illiterate and dictated 'The Guidelines' to a social worker, rather than writing them himself as a highly educated individual.

Related Concepts:

  • Who founded MOVE and what was his birth name?: MOVE was founded by John Africa, whose birth name was Vincent Leaphart. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts, known as 'The Guidelines,' to a social worker.
  • What were John Africa's educational background and how did he establish the group's principles?: John Africa was functionally illiterate when the organization was founded in 1972. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts to Donald Glassey, a social worker from the University of Pennsylvania, which became known as 'The Guidelines' for his communal group.

MOVE's political ideology was a blend of Black power and environmental activism, described as 'black liberationists-cum-eco warriors'.

Answer: True

Ed Pilkington of The Guardian characterized MOVE's political views as a 'strange fusion of black power and flower power,' describing them as 'black liberationists-cum-eco warriors'.

Related Concepts:

  • How did Ed Pilkington of The Guardian characterize MOVE's political views in 2018?: In a 2018 article, Ed Pilkington of The Guardian described MOVE's political views as 'a strange fusion of black power and flower power,' melding the revolutionary ideology of the Black Panthers with the nature- and animal-loving communalism of 1960s hippies, characterizing them as 'black liberationists-cum-eco warriors'.
  • What were the core ideologies advocated by MOVE?: MOVE advocated for a range of ideologies including green anarchism, Black liberation, Black nationalism, animal rights, anarcho-primitivism, deep ecology, direct democracy, and environmentalism. The group's political position is described as far-left.

The name 'MOVE' is an acronym that stands for 'Movement for Organic, Vegan, and Environmentalism'.

Answer: False

The name 'MOVE' is not an acronym; John Africa chose it to reflect the belief that 'Everything that's alive moves'.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the meaning behind the name 'MOVE' for the organization?: The name 'MOVE' is not an acronym; John Africa chose it to reflect their intention to be active, based on the belief that 'Everything that's alive moves. If it didn't, it would be stagnant, dead.' Members also greeted each other by saying 'on the MOVE'.

MOVE members adopted the surname 'Africa' and wore dreadlocks to symbolize their connection to their mother continent and their return-to-nature philosophy.

Answer: True

MOVE members adopted the surname 'Africa' and wore dreadlocks to symbolize reverence for their mother continent and their radical green politics and return-to-nature philosophy.

Related Concepts:

  • How did MOVE members demonstrate their commitment to their beliefs through their names and appearance?: Members of MOVE changed their surnames to 'Africa' to show reverence for what they regarded as their mother continent. They also wore their hair in dreadlocks, a style popularized by Rastafari, reflecting their radical green politics and return-to-nature philosophy.

MOVE advocated against institutions such as puppy mills, zoos, and circuses, viewing them as forms of animal enslavement.

Answer: True

MOVE demonstrated against puppy mills, zoos, circuses, and other forms of animal enslavement, aligning with their animal rights advocacy.

Related Concepts:

  • What were some of the specific causes and institutions MOVE demonstrated against?: MOVE demonstrated against various issues and institutions, including puppy mills, zoos, circuses, and any form of animal enslavement. They also protested against Three Mile Island, industrial pollution, and police brutality, asserting that 'Slavery never ended, it was just disguised'.

Donald Glassey, a social worker, was instrumental in documenting John Africa's 'The Guidelines' and owned the house where MOVE initially lived communally.

Answer: True

Donald Glassey, a social worker, documented John Africa's 'The Guidelines' and owned the house in Powelton Village where MOVE initially lived communally.

Related Concepts:

  • Where did MOVE initially establish its communal living arrangement in Philadelphia?: MOVE initially lived in a commune in a house owned by Donald Glassey in the Powelton Village section of West Philadelphia. This communal setting was central to their lifestyle and philosophy.
  • Who founded MOVE and what was his birth name?: MOVE was founded by John Africa, whose birth name was Vincent Leaphart. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts, known as 'The Guidelines,' to a social worker.
  • What were John Africa's educational background and how did he establish the group's principles?: John Africa was functionally illiterate when the organization was founded in 1972. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts to Donald Glassey, a social worker from the University of Pennsylvania, which became known as 'The Guidelines' for his communal group.

In what year was MOVE, originally known as the Christian Movement for Life, founded?

Answer: 1972

MOVE, initially the Christian Movement for Life, was founded in 1972 in Philadelphia.

Related Concepts:

  • What is MOVE and when was it founded?: MOVE, originally known as the Christian Movement for Life, is a communal organization founded in 1972 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. It advocates for nature laws and natural living.

What was the birth name of John Africa, the founder of MOVE?

Answer: Vincent Leaphart

John Africa's birth name was Vincent Leaphart.

Related Concepts:

  • Who founded MOVE and what was his birth name?: MOVE was founded by John Africa, whose birth name was Vincent Leaphart. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts, known as 'The Guidelines,' to a social worker.

Which of the following ideologies was NOT explicitly advocated by MOVE according to the source?

Answer: Anarcho-syndicalism

The source lists green anarchism, Black liberation, Black nationalism, animal rights, anarcho-primitivism, deep ecology, direct democracy, and environmentalism as MOVE's ideologies, but not anarcho-syndicalism.

Related Concepts:

  • What were the core ideologies advocated by MOVE?: MOVE advocated for a range of ideologies including green anarchism, Black liberation, Black nationalism, animal rights, anarcho-primitivism, deep ecology, direct democracy, and environmentalism. The group's political position is described as far-left.

How did John Africa establish the group's principles, known as 'The Guidelines'?

Answer: He dictated his thoughts to a social worker from the University of Pennsylvania.

John Africa, who was functionally illiterate, established 'The Guidelines' by dictating his thoughts to Donald Glassey, a social worker from the University of Pennsylvania.

Related Concepts:

  • What were John Africa's educational background and how did he establish the group's principles?: John Africa was functionally illiterate when the organization was founded in 1972. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts to Donald Glassey, a social worker from the University of Pennsylvania, which became known as 'The Guidelines' for his communal group.
  • Who founded MOVE and what was his birth name?: MOVE was founded by John Africa, whose birth name was Vincent Leaphart. He established the group's principles by dictating his thoughts, known as 'The Guidelines,' to a social worker.

Ed Pilkington of The Guardian characterized MOVE's political views as a 'strange fusion of black power and flower power,' also describing them as:

Answer: Black liberationists-cum-eco warriors

Ed Pilkington of The Guardian described MOVE's political views as 'black liberationists-cum-eco warriors,' a fusion of black power and flower power.

Related Concepts:

  • How did Ed Pilkington of The Guardian characterize MOVE's political views in 2018?: In a 2018 article, Ed Pilkington of The Guardian described MOVE's political views as 'a strange fusion of black power and flower power,' melding the revolutionary ideology of the Black Panthers with the nature- and animal-loving communalism of 1960s hippies, characterizing them as 'black liberationists-cum-eco warriors'.

Where did MOVE initially establish its communal living arrangement in Philadelphia?

Answer: Powelton Village

MOVE initially established its communal living arrangement in a house owned by Donald Glassey in the Powelton Village section of West Philadelphia.

Related Concepts:

  • Where did MOVE initially establish its communal living arrangement in Philadelphia?: MOVE initially lived in a commune in a house owned by Donald Glassey in the Powelton Village section of West Philadelphia. This communal setting was central to their lifestyle and philosophy.

What was the meaning behind the name 'MOVE' for the organization?

Answer: It reflected their intention to be active, based on the belief that 'Everything that's alive moves'.

John Africa chose the name 'MOVE' to reflect the belief that 'Everything that's alive moves,' signifying their intention to be active.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the meaning behind the name 'MOVE' for the organization?: The name 'MOVE' is not an acronym; John Africa chose it to reflect their intention to be active, based on the belief that 'Everything that's alive moves. If it didn't, it would be stagnant, dead.' Members also greeted each other by saying 'on the MOVE'.

The 1978 Powelton Village Standoff and the MOVE 9

The 1978 standoff between MOVE and the Philadelphia Police Department was primarily triggered by a dispute over animal rights activism.

Answer: False

The 1978 standoff was triggered by a court order for MOVE to vacate their Powelton Village property due to neighbor complaints, not primarily animal rights activism.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the immediate cause of the 1978 standoff between MOVE and the Philadelphia Police Department?: In 1977, the Philadelphia Police Department obtained a court order for MOVE to vacate their Powelton Village property due to a series of complaints made by neighbors. When MOVE members who had not left the property were confronted by police on August 8, 1978, a standoff ensued.
  • What were some of the specific causes and institutions MOVE demonstrated against?: MOVE demonstrated against various issues and institutions, including puppy mills, zoos, circuses, and any form of animal enslavement. They also protested against Three Mile Island, industrial pollution, and police brutality, asserting that 'Slavery never ended, it was just disguised'.

During the 1978 shootout, Officer James J. Ramp was killed, and MOVE members claimed he was a victim of friendly fire.

Answer: True

Officer James J. Ramp was killed during the 1978 shootout, and MOVE representatives claimed he was killed by friendly fire from fellow police officers.

Related Concepts:

  • What were MOVE's claims regarding the death of Officer James J. Ramp?: MOVE representatives claimed that Officer Ramp was facing the house at the time of his death and denied that the group was responsible, insisting he was killed by friendly fire from fellow police officers. They also stated they had no workable guns in their house during the siege, although prosecutors alleged functioning firearms were present.
  • What was the outcome of the 1978 shootout regarding police casualties?: During the 1978 shootout, Philadelphia Police Department Officer James J. Ramp of the Stakeout Unit, which is now known as the S.W.A.T. Unit, was killed by a gunshot to the neck. Additionally, 16 other police officers and firefighters were injured in the firefight.

The political climate in Philadelphia under Mayor Frank Rizzo was characterized by a lenient approach towards activist groups, which reduced tensions with MOVE.

Answer: False

Under Mayor Frank Rizzo, the political climate was characterized by a strict approach against activist groups, which increased scrutiny and tensions with MOVE.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the political climate in Philadelphia that led to increased scrutiny of MOVE's activities?: MOVE's activities were closely watched by law enforcement, particularly under the administration of Mayor Frank Rizzo, who was a former police commissioner known for his strict approach against activist groups. This scrutiny contributed to escalating tensions.

What was the political climate in Philadelphia under Mayor Frank Rizzo that contributed to increased scrutiny of MOVE?

Answer: A strict approach against activist groups by a former police commissioner.

Under Mayor Frank Rizzo, a former police commissioner, Philadelphia's political climate was characterized by a strict approach against activist groups, increasing scrutiny of MOVE.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the political climate in Philadelphia that led to increased scrutiny of MOVE's activities?: MOVE's activities were closely watched by law enforcement, particularly under the administration of Mayor Frank Rizzo, who was a former police commissioner known for his strict approach against activist groups. This scrutiny contributed to escalating tensions.

What event in 1977 significantly increased tension between MOVE and the Philadelphia Police Department?

Answer: The jailing of three MOVE members for inciting a riot.

The jailing of three MOVE members for inciting a riot in 1977 significantly increased tensions, protests, and armed displays from the group.

Related Concepts:

  • What event in 1977 led to increased tension between MOVE and the Philadelphia Police Department?: In 1977, three MOVE members were jailed for inciting a riot, an event that significantly increased tension, protests, and armed displays from the group, setting the stage for future conflicts.

What was the immediate cause for the Philadelphia Police Department to obtain a court order for MOVE to vacate their Powelton Village property in 1977?

Answer: A series of complaints made by neighbors.

The Philadelphia Police Department obtained a court order for MOVE to vacate their Powelton Village property in 1977 due to a series of complaints from neighbors.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the immediate cause of the 1978 standoff between MOVE and the Philadelphia Police Department?: In 1977, the Philadelphia Police Department obtained a court order for MOVE to vacate their Powelton Village property due to a series of complaints made by neighbors. When MOVE members who had not left the property were confronted by police on August 8, 1978, a standoff ensued.

How many police officers and firefighters were injured during the 1978 shootout with MOVE?

Answer: 16

During the 1978 shootout, 16 police officers and firefighters were injured, in addition to Officer James J. Ramp being killed.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the outcome of the 1978 shootout regarding police casualties?: During the 1978 shootout, Philadelphia Police Department Officer James J. Ramp of the Stakeout Unit, which is now known as the S.W.A.T. Unit, was killed by a gunshot to the neck. Additionally, 16 other police officers and firefighters were injured in the firefight.

What was the primary claim made by MOVE representatives regarding the death of Officer James J. Ramp in 1978?

Answer: He was killed by friendly fire from fellow police officers.

MOVE representatives claimed that Officer James J. Ramp was killed by friendly fire from fellow police officers during the 1978 shootout.

Related Concepts:

  • What were MOVE's claims regarding the death of Officer James J. Ramp?: MOVE representatives claimed that Officer Ramp was facing the house at the time of his death and denied that the group was responsible, insisting he was killed by friendly fire from fellow police officers. They also stated they had no workable guns in their house during the siege, although prosecutors alleged functioning firearms were present.

The 1985 Osage Avenue Bombing and Immediate Aftermath

After the 1978 conflict, MOVE relocated to a new communal house in North Philadelphia, where they continued their activism without further community complaints.

Answer: False

MOVE relocated to Osage Avenue in West Philadelphia, not North Philadelphia, and continued to face numerous complaints from neighbors leading up to the 1985 bombing.

Related Concepts:

  • Where did MOVE relocate after the 1978 conflict, and what issues arose with their new neighbors?: In 1981, MOVE relocated to a row house at 6221 Osage Avenue in the Cobbs Creek area of West Philadelphia. Neighbors frequently complained to the city for years about the accumulation of trash and human waste around the building, confrontations with MOVE members, and loud, sometimes obscene, political messages broadcast via bullhorn.

Mayor Wilson Goode and Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor classified MOVE as a terrorist organization prior to the 1985 bombing.

Answer: True

Prior to the 1985 bombing, Mayor Wilson Goode and Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor classified MOVE as a terrorist organization.

Related Concepts:

  • What actions did the police take leading up to the 1985 bombing?: In 1985, police obtained arrest warrants for four MOVE occupants on charges including parole violations, contempt of court, illegal possession of firearms, and making terrorist threats. Mayor Wilson Goode and Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor classified MOVE as a terrorist organization, and residents of the area were evacuated with assurances of a 24-hour return.

During the 1985 standoff, police initially attempted to negotiate a peaceful surrender by offering food and water to the MOVE occupants.

Answer: False

During the 1985 operation, police shut off water and electricity to force occupants out, and Commissioner Sambor demanded compliance, rather than offering food and water for negotiation.

Related Concepts:

  • Describe the police operation on May 13, 1985, at the MOVE compound.: On Monday, May 13, 1985, nearly 500 police officers, along with city manager Leo Brooks, arrived to execute arrest warrants and clear the building. They shut off water and electricity to force the 13 occupants (7 adults and 6 children) out, and Commissioner Sambor read a speech demanding compliance with U.S. laws.

The 1985 bombing of the MOVE compound resulted in the deaths of 11 people, including John Africa and five children.

Answer: True

The 1985 bombing resulted in the deaths of 11 people, specifically John Africa, five other adults, and five children aged 7 to 13.

Related Concepts:

  • How did the Philadelphia Police Department ultimately resolve the 1985 standoff, and what were the immediate consequences?: Police Commissioner Sambor ordered the compound to be bombed. Lt. Frank Powell of the Philadelphia Police Department dropped two one-pound bombs, referred to as 'entry devices' and made of FBI-supplied Tovex (a dynamite substitute), onto a cubicle on the roof of the house. This action resulted in a fire that killed 11 people, including John Africa, five other adults, and five children aged 7 to 13.

Firefighters were immediately dispatched to extinguish the fire after the 1985 bombing, but the blaze was too intense to control.

Answer: False

Firefighters were held back after the 1985 bombing due to fears that MOVE members would shoot at them, allowing the fire to spread.

Related Concepts:

  • Why were firefighters held back after the 1985 bombing, allowing the fire to spread?: Although firefighters had earlier drenched the building prior to the bombing, after the fire broke out, officials said they feared that MOVE members would shoot at the firefighters, so they were held back, which contributed to the fire's widespread destruction.

Ramona Africa, the only adult survivor of the 1985 bombing, was later acquitted of all charges related to the incident.

Answer: False

Ramona Africa, the only adult survivor, was charged and convicted of riot and conspiracy, serving seven years in prison.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the fate of Ramona Africa, the only adult survivor of the 1985 bombing?: Ramona Africa, one of the two MOVE survivors and the only adult to survive the 1985 bombing, was charged and convicted on charges of riot and conspiracy. She subsequently served seven years in prison.
  • Who is Ramona Africa and what is her current role within MOVE?: Ramona Africa is one of the two adult survivors of the 1985 MOVE bombing and currently acts as a spokesperson for the group. She was also convicted of riot and conspiracy after the 1985 incident.

The 1985 bombing caused damage only to the MOVE compound itself, with no other houses affected.

Answer: False

The fire from the 1985 bombing spread beyond the MOVE compound, destroying approximately 65 nearby houses and displacing many residents.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the extent of the damage to the surrounding neighborhood from the 1985 bombing?: The fire caused by the bombing spread beyond the MOVE compound, ultimately destroying approximately 65 nearby houses on Osage Avenue and nearby Pine Street, displacing many residents.

After the 1978 conflict, MOVE relocated to which area of West Philadelphia in 1981?

Answer: Cobbs Creek

In 1981, after the 1978 conflict, MOVE relocated to a row house at 6221 Osage Avenue in the Cobbs Creek area of West Philadelphia.

Related Concepts:

  • Where did MOVE relocate after the 1978 conflict, and what issues arose with their new neighbors?: In 1981, MOVE relocated to a row house at 6221 Osage Avenue in the Cobbs Creek area of West Philadelphia. Neighbors frequently complained to the city for years about the accumulation of trash and human waste around the building, confrontations with MOVE members, and loud, sometimes obscene, political messages broadcast via bullhorn.

What was one of the primary complaints neighbors had about MOVE's new compound on Osage Avenue leading up to the 1985 bombing?

Answer: Accumulation of trash and human waste around the building.

Neighbors frequently complained about the accumulation of trash and human waste around MOVE's Osage Avenue building, along with confrontations and loud political messages.

Related Concepts:

  • Where did MOVE relocate after the 1978 conflict, and what issues arose with their new neighbors?: In 1981, MOVE relocated to a row house at 6221 Osage Avenue in the Cobbs Creek area of West Philadelphia. Neighbors frequently complained to the city for years about the accumulation of trash and human waste around the building, confrontations with MOVE members, and loud, sometimes obscene, political messages broadcast via bullhorn.

How many houses were ultimately destroyed by the fire that spread from the 1985 MOVE bombing?

Answer: Approximately 65

The fire caused by the 1985 bombing spread and ultimately destroyed approximately 65 nearby houses.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the extent of the damage to the surrounding neighborhood from the 1985 bombing?: The fire caused by the bombing spread beyond the MOVE compound, ultimately destroying approximately 65 nearby houses on Osage Avenue and nearby Pine Street, displacing many residents.

Why were firefighters held back after the 1985 bombing, allowing the fire to spread?

Answer: Officials feared MOVE members would shoot at them.

Firefighters were held back after the 1985 bombing because officials feared MOVE members would shoot at them, contributing to the fire's widespread destruction.

Related Concepts:

  • Why were firefighters held back after the 1985 bombing, allowing the fire to spread?: Although firefighters had earlier drenched the building prior to the bombing, after the fire broke out, officials said they feared that MOVE members would shoot at the firefighters, so they were held back, which contributed to the fire's widespread destruction.

What was Ramona Africa's fate after surviving the 1985 bombing?

Answer: She was charged and convicted of riot and conspiracy, serving seven years.

Ramona Africa, the only adult survivor of the 1985 bombing, was charged and convicted of riot and conspiracy, serving seven years in prison.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the fate of Ramona Africa, the only adult survivor of the 1985 bombing?: Ramona Africa, one of the two MOVE survivors and the only adult to survive the 1985 bombing, was charged and convicted on charges of riot and conspiracy. She subsequently served seven years in prison.
  • Who is Ramona Africa and what is her current role within MOVE?: Ramona Africa is one of the two adult survivors of the 1985 MOVE bombing and currently acts as a spokesperson for the group. She was also convicted of riot and conspiracy after the 1985 incident.

Who is Ramona Africa in relation to MOVE?

Answer: One of the two adult survivors of the 1985 bombing and current spokesperson.

Ramona Africa is one of the two adult survivors of the 1985 MOVE bombing and currently serves as a spokesperson for the group.

Related Concepts:

  • Who is Ramona Africa and what is her current role within MOVE?: Ramona Africa is one of the two adult survivors of the 1985 MOVE bombing and currently acts as a spokesperson for the group. She was also convicted of riot and conspiracy after the 1985 incident.
  • What was the fate of Ramona Africa, the only adult survivor of the 1985 bombing?: Ramona Africa, one of the two MOVE survivors and the only adult to survive the 1985 bombing, was charged and convicted on charges of riot and conspiracy. She subsequently served seven years in prison.

Investigations, Legal Outcomes, and Official Responses

The Philadelphia Special Investigation Commission (PSIC) concluded that the city's actions during the 1985 bombing were justifiable given the circumstances.

Answer: False

The PSIC strongly denounced the city's actions, stating that 'Dropping a bomb on an occupied row house was unconscionable'.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the Philadelphia Special Investigation Commission (PSIC) and what was its finding regarding the 1985 bombing?: The PSIC, also known as the MOVE Commission, was an investigative body appointed by Mayor Goode and chaired by attorney William H. Brown, III. Its report, issued on March 6, 1986, strongly denounced the city's actions, stating that 'Dropping a bomb on an occupied row house was unconscionable'.

Mayor Wilson Goode issued a formal public apology for the city's actions following the release of the MOVE Commission's report.

Answer: True

Mayor Wilson Goode made a formal public apology for the city's actions after the MOVE Commission's report was released.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the city's official response to the MOVE Commission's report?: Following the release of the MOVE Commission's report, Mayor Wilson Goode made a formal public apology for the city's actions. This apology acknowledged the severe criticism leveled against the city government.

Several city officials, including Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor, faced criminal charges for their roles in the 1985 bombing.

Answer: False

No one from the city government was criminally charged in the 1985 attack, although Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor resigned.

Related Concepts:

  • What legal repercussions did city officials face after the 1985 bombing?: No one from the city government was criminally charged in the attack. Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor resigned in November 1985, and in a speech the following year, he stated that he was made a 'surrogate' by Mayor Goode.

In 1996, a federal jury found the City of Philadelphia liable for using excessive force and violating constitutional protections during the 1985 bombing.

Answer: True

A federal jury in 1996 ordered the City of Philadelphia to pay a civil suit judgment, finding it liable for using excessive force and violating constitutional protections.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the outcome of the civil lawsuit filed by Ramona Africa and relatives of the bombing victims?: In 1996, a federal jury ordered the City of Philadelphia to pay a $1.5 million civil suit judgment to survivor Ramona Africa and relatives of two people killed in the bombing. The jury found that the city had used excessive force and violated the members' constitutional protections against unreasonable search and seizure, specifically the Fourth Amendment.

Philadelphia earned the nickname 'The City of Brotherly Love' after the 1985 bombing due to its compassionate response to the tragedy.

Answer: False

After the 1985 bombing, Philadelphia was given the sobriquet 'The City that Bombed Itself' due to the police action and widespread destruction.

Related Concepts:

  • What sobriquet was given to Philadelphia after the 1985 bombing?: In 1985, Philadelphia was given the sobriquet 'The City that Bombed Itself' due to the police action against the MOVE compound and the resulting widespread destruction.

In 2020, the Philadelphia City Council issued an apology for the 1985 MOVE bombing and established an annual day of observation.

Answer: True

On November 12, 2020, the Philadelphia City Council passed a resolution apologizing for the 1985 MOVE bombing and established an annual day of observation.

Related Concepts:

  • What recent action did the Philadelphia City Council take regarding the 1985 MOVE bombing?: On November 12, 2020, the City Council of Philadelphia passed a resolution apologizing 'for the decisions and events preceding and leading to the devastation that occurred on May 13, 1985.' The council also established 'an annual day of observation, reflection and recommitment' to remember the MOVE Bombing.

What was the outcome for city officials regarding criminal charges after the 1985 bombing?

Answer: No one from the city government was criminally charged.

No city government officials were criminally charged in the 1985 bombing, though Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor resigned.

Related Concepts:

  • What legal repercussions did city officials face after the 1985 bombing?: No one from the city government was criminally charged in the attack. Police Commissioner Gregore J. Sambor resigned in November 1985, and in a speech the following year, he stated that he was made a 'surrogate' by Mayor Goode.

What sobriquet was given to Philadelphia after the 1985 bombing?

Answer: The City that Bombed Itself

After the 1985 bombing, Philadelphia was given the sobriquet 'The City that Bombed Itself' due to the police action and resulting destruction.

Related Concepts:

  • What sobriquet was given to Philadelphia after the 1985 bombing?: In 1985, Philadelphia was given the sobriquet 'The City that Bombed Itself' due to the police action against the MOVE compound and the resulting widespread destruction.

What action did the Philadelphia City Council take on November 12, 2020, regarding the 1985 MOVE bombing?

Answer: It passed a resolution apologizing for the events and established an annual day of observation.

On November 12, 2020, the Philadelphia City Council passed a resolution apologizing for the 1985 MOVE bombing and established an annual day of observation.

Related Concepts:

  • What recent action did the Philadelphia City Council take regarding the 1985 MOVE bombing?: On November 12, 2020, the City Council of Philadelphia passed a resolution apologizing 'for the decisions and events preceding and leading to the devastation that occurred on May 13, 1985.' The council also established 'an annual day of observation, reflection and recommitment' to remember the MOVE Bombing.

What was the amount of damages awarded to other residents displaced by the 1985 bombing in a 2005 federal jury decision?

Answer: $12.83 million

In 2005, a federal jury awarded $12.83 million in damages to residents displaced by the destruction following the 1985 bombing.

Related Concepts:

  • What compensation was awarded to residents displaced by the destruction of the 1985 bombing?: In 2005, a federal jury, presided over by Judge Clarence Charles Newcomer, awarded $12.83 million in damages to other residents who had been displaced by the widespread destruction following the 1985 police bombing of MOVE.

Later Developments and Enduring Legacy

All nine members of the 'MOVE 9' were released from prison simultaneously in 2018.

Answer: False

While Debbie Sims Africa was released in 2018, other members of the MOVE 9 were released in subsequent years, and some died in prison before release.

Related Concepts:

  • When did the first members of the MOVE 9 become eligible for parole, and what was the initial outcome?: Seven of the surviving eight members of the MOVE 9 first became eligible for parole in the spring of 2008, but their requests were denied. Parole hearings were subsequently scheduled to be held yearly from that time.
  • Who was the first member of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole, and what significant personal event accompanied her release?: Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole on June 16, 2018. She was reunited with her son, Michael Davis Africa, Jr., who was born a month after her imprisonment and taken from her a week later, highlighting the personal toll of her incarceration.
  • When were the remaining members of the MOVE 9 released from prison?: Michael Davis Africa was released on parole on October 23, 2018. Janine and Janet Africa were released in May 2019 after 41 years. Eddie Goodman Africa was released on June 21, 2019. Delbert Orr Africa was released on January 18, 2020, and Chuck Sims Africa, the last jailed member, was released on February 7, 2020, also after 41 years.

Merle Africa and Phil Africa were the only two members of the MOVE 9 who died while still incarcerated.

Answer: True

Merle Africa died in prison in 1998 and Phil Africa died in prison in 2015, making them the only two members of the MOVE 9 to die while incarcerated.

Related Concepts:

  • Which members of the MOVE 9 died in prison?: Merle Africa died in prison in 1998 at age 47, and Phil Africa died in prison in 2015 at age 59. Both had been serving sentences related to the 1978 shootout.

Former MOVE members came forward in 2021 with allegations of internal abuse, including homophobia and manipulation.

Answer: True

In 2021, former MOVE members alleged physical and mental abuse, homophobia, colorism, and manipulation within the organization.

Related Concepts:

  • What allegations were made by former MOVE members in 2021?: In 2021, former members of MOVE came forward with allegations of abuse within the organization. These claims, reported in the 'Murder at Ryan’s Run' podcast and the blog 'Leaving MOVE 2021', included physical and mental abuse, homophobia, colorism, and manipulation of the public and media under the banner of social justice.

John Gilbride, Jr.'s murder in 2002 was definitively solved, with a former MOVE member confessing to the crime.

Answer: False

John Gilbride, Jr.'s murder in 2002 remains unsolved, with investigators not naming a suspect and conflicting theories surrounding the case.

Related Concepts:

  • What events led up to the shooting death of John Gilbride, Jr. in 2002?: During a bitter custody dispute over his son, Zackary, John Gilbride testified in court on September 10, 2002, that MOVE had threatened to kill him. The court granted him partial custody with unsupervised visits. Shortly after midnight on September 27, before his first visitation date, an unknown assailant shot and killed him as he sat in a car parked outside his New Jersey apartment complex.
  • What were the conflicting statements and theories surrounding John Gilbride's unsolved murder?: Investigators did not name a suspect, and the Burlington County Police did not release ballistics information, leaving the case unsolved. A MOVE spokeswoman initially claimed the U.S. government assassinated Gilbride to frame MOVE, while his ex-wife Alberta Africa denied the murder, stating in 2009 that he was 'out hiding somewhere.' An ex-MOVE member, Tony Allen, asserted that MOVE murdered Gilbride.
  • Who was John Gilbride, Jr., and what was his connection to MOVE?: John Gilbride, Jr. was the husband of John Africa's widow, Alberta, after John Africa's death. They had a child, Zackary Africa, before divorcing in 1999. By 2002, Gilbride no longer supported MOVE and had resettled in Maple Shade, New Jersey.

The Penn Museum and the University of Pennsylvania apologized in 2021 for using human remains from the 1985 MOVE bombing in research and training.

Answer: True

In April 2021, the Penn Museum and the University of Pennsylvania apologized for using human remains from the 1985 MOVE house in research and training.

Related Concepts:

  • What controversy arose in 2021 regarding human remains from the 1985 MOVE bombing?: In April 2021, the Penn Museum and the University of Pennsylvania apologized for allowing human remains from the 1985 MOVE house to be used in research and training. These burned remains, given by the Philadelphia City Medical Examiner's Office in 1985 to verify the bones of 14-year-old Tree Africa and 12-year-old Delisha Africa, were kept in storage for decades and used as a case study in an online forensic course.

Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley resigned in 2021 after it was revealed he had ordered the public display of victims' remains without family consent.

Answer: False

Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley resigned in 2021 for ordering the cremation of victims' remains without family notification, not for ordering their public display.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the role of Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley in the human remains controversy?: Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley resigned in May 2021 after revelations that he had ordered the cremation of a set of victims' remains without notifying or obtaining permission from the families of the deceased, or even releasing their names. The day after his resignation, the remains were recovered in a box labeled MOVE.

Michael Moses Ward, known as Birdie Africa, remained an active member and spokesperson for MOVE until his death.

Answer: False

After the 1985 bombing, Michael Moses Ward (Birdie Africa) lived with his father, sued the city, and did not remain involved with MOVE.

Related Concepts:

  • Who was Michael Moses Ward, also known as Birdie Africa, and what was his significance?: Michael Moses Ward, known in MOVE as Birdie Africa, was the only child to survive the 1985 bombing. He was 13 years old at the time of the incident and suffered serious burns, while his mother was killed.
  • What happened to Michael Moses Ward after the 1985 bombing?: After the 1985 bombing, Michael Moses Ward lived with his father, Andino Ward, who successfully sued the City of Philadelphia, reaching a settlement. Michael Moses Ward did not remain involved with MOVE and later died in 2013 in an accidental drowning.

Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole, and she was reunited with her son who was born during her imprisonment.

Answer: True

Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 released on parole in 2018 and was reunited with her son, Michael Davis Africa, Jr., who was born shortly after her imprisonment.

Related Concepts:

  • Who was the first member of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole, and what significant personal event accompanied her release?: Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole on June 16, 2018. She was reunited with her son, Michael Davis Africa, Jr., who was born a month after her imprisonment and taken from her a week later, highlighting the personal toll of her incarceration.
  • What was the broader impact of Debbie Sims Africa's release in 2018?: Debbie Sims Africa's release renewed attention on other Black liberationists, including members of MOVE and the Black Panthers, who remained imprisoned in the U.S. from the 1960s and 1970s, with at least 25 still incarcerated as of June 2018.

Mumia Abu-Jamal, a MOVE member, was convicted of the 1981 murder of a police officer and is currently serving a death sentence.

Answer: False

Mumia Abu-Jamal's death sentence was overturned in 2011, and he was resentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, not a death sentence.

Related Concepts:

  • What is Mumia Abu-Jamal's connection to MOVE and his legal situation?: Mumia Abu-Jamal is a member of MOVE who was convicted and initially sentenced to death for the unrelated 1981 murder of police officer Daniel Faulkner. His death sentence was overturned in 2011, and he was resentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. MOVE continues to advocate for his release.

The novel 'Philadelphia Fire' by John Edgar Wideman and the song 'Save A City...' by Mischief Brew are both cultural works inspired by the MOVE bombing.

Answer: True

John Edgar Wideman's 1990 novel 'Philadelphia Fire' and Mischief Brew's 2006 song 'Save A City...' are both cultural works inspired by the MOVE bombing.

Related Concepts:

  • What literary work was inspired by the MOVE bombing?: John Edgar Wideman's 1990 novel, 'Philadelphia Fire', is based on the MOVE bombing, reflecting on the tragic events and their aftermath.
  • What song was created about the MOVE bombing?: Mischief Brew's 2006 song, 'Save A City…', is about the MOVE bombing, serving as a musical commentary on the historical event.

The documentary 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue' primarily focuses on the internal dynamics and leadership struggles within MOVE.

Answer: False

'The Bombing of Osage Avenue' focuses on the historical context of the Cobbs Creek community and the bombing's effects on residents, not internal MOVE dynamics.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the focus of the documentary 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue'?: 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue' (1986), by author Toni Cade Bambara and Louis Massiah, provides historical context for the bombing by examining the history of the Cobbs Creek community. It focuses on the bombing's effects on community residents who did not belong to MOVE and incorporates footage from the MOVE commission hearings.

Which of the following members of the 'MOVE 9' was the first to be released on parole?

Answer: Debbie Sims Africa

Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole on June 16, 2018.

Related Concepts:

  • When did the first members of the MOVE 9 become eligible for parole, and what was the initial outcome?: Seven of the surviving eight members of the MOVE 9 first became eligible for parole in the spring of 2008, but their requests were denied. Parole hearings were subsequently scheduled to be held yearly from that time.
  • Who was the first member of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole, and what significant personal event accompanied her release?: Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole on June 16, 2018. She was reunited with her son, Michael Davis Africa, Jr., who was born a month after her imprisonment and taken from her a week later, highlighting the personal toll of her incarceration.

What type of allegations were made by former MOVE members in 2021?

Answer: Physical and mental abuse, homophobia, and manipulation.

In 2021, former MOVE members alleged physical and mental abuse, homophobia, colorism, and manipulation within the organization.

Related Concepts:

  • What allegations were made by former MOVE members in 2021?: In 2021, former members of MOVE came forward with allegations of abuse within the organization. These claims, reported in the 'Murder at Ryan’s Run' podcast and the blog 'Leaving MOVE 2021', included physical and mental abuse, homophobia, colorism, and manipulation of the public and media under the banner of social justice.

What was the reason for Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley's resignation in May 2021?

Answer: Ordering the cremation of victims' remains without family notification.

Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley resigned in May 2021 after it was revealed he had ordered the cremation of victims' remains without family notification.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the role of Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley in the human remains controversy?: Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley resigned in May 2021 after revelations that he had ordered the cremation of a set of victims' remains without notifying or obtaining permission from the families of the deceased, or even releasing their names. The day after his resignation, the remains were recovered in a box labeled MOVE.

What is the current legal status of MOVE member Mumia Abu-Jamal?

Answer: He is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole.

Mumia Abu-Jamal is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole after his death sentence was overturned in 2011.

Related Concepts:

  • What is Mumia Abu-Jamal's connection to MOVE and his legal situation?: Mumia Abu-Jamal is a member of MOVE who was convicted and initially sentenced to death for the unrelated 1981 murder of police officer Daniel Faulkner. His death sentence was overturned in 2011, and he was resentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. MOVE continues to advocate for his release.

What happened to Michael Moses Ward (Birdie Africa) after the 1985 bombing?

Answer: He lived with his father, sued the city, and did not remain involved with MOVE.

After the 1985 bombing, Michael Moses Ward (Birdie Africa) lived with his father, successfully sued the City of Philadelphia, and did not remain involved with MOVE.

Related Concepts:

  • Who was Michael Moses Ward, also known as Birdie Africa, and what was his significance?: Michael Moses Ward, known in MOVE as Birdie Africa, was the only child to survive the 1985 bombing. He was 13 years old at the time of the incident and suffered serious burns, while his mother was killed.
  • What happened to Michael Moses Ward after the 1985 bombing?: After the 1985 bombing, Michael Moses Ward lived with his father, Andino Ward, who successfully sued the City of Philadelphia, reaching a settlement. Michael Moses Ward did not remain involved with MOVE and later died in 2013 in an accidental drowning.

Which novel, published in 1990, was inspired by the MOVE bombing?

Answer: 'Philadelphia Fire' by John Edgar Wideman

John Edgar Wideman's 1990 novel, 'Philadelphia Fire', is based on the MOVE bombing.

Related Concepts:

  • What literary work was inspired by the MOVE bombing?: John Edgar Wideman's 1990 novel, 'Philadelphia Fire', is based on the MOVE bombing, reflecting on the tragic events and their aftermath.

What is the focus of the documentary 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue' (1986)?

Answer: The historical context of the Cobbs Creek community and the bombing's effects on residents.

The documentary 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue' focuses on the historical context of the Cobbs Creek community and the bombing's effects on its residents.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the focus of the documentary 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue'?: 'The Bombing of Osage Avenue' (1986), by author Toni Cade Bambara and Louis Massiah, provides historical context for the bombing by examining the history of the Cobbs Creek community. It focuses on the bombing's effects on community residents who did not belong to MOVE and incorporates footage from the MOVE commission hearings.

Which members of the MOVE 9 died in prison?

Answer: Merle Africa and Phil Africa

Merle Africa and Phil Africa were the two members of the MOVE 9 who died while incarcerated.

Related Concepts:

  • Which members of the MOVE 9 died in prison?: Merle Africa died in prison in 1998 at age 47, and Phil Africa died in prison in 2015 at age 59. Both had been serving sentences related to the 1978 shootout.

What was the broader impact of Debbie Sims Africa's release in 2018?

Answer: It sparked renewed attention on other Black liberationists imprisoned from the 1960s and 1970s.

Debbie Sims Africa's release in 2018 renewed attention on other Black liberationists, including MOVE members and Black Panthers, who remained imprisoned.

Related Concepts:

  • What was the broader impact of Debbie Sims Africa's release in 2018?: Debbie Sims Africa's release renewed attention on other Black liberationists, including members of MOVE and the Black Panthers, who remained imprisoned in the U.S. from the 1960s and 1970s, with at least 25 still incarcerated as of June 2018.
  • Who was the first member of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole, and what significant personal event accompanied her release?: Debbie Sims Africa was the first of the MOVE 9 to be released on parole on June 16, 2018. She was reunited with her son, Michael Davis Africa, Jr., who was born a month after her imprisonment and taken from her a week later, highlighting the personal toll of her incarceration.

What was the primary focus of the documentary 'Let the Fire Burn' (2013)?

Answer: A historical perspective on MOVE and its conflicts, composed largely of archival footage.

'Let the Fire Burn' (2013) is a documentary about MOVE composed largely of archival footage, offering a historical perspective on the group and its conflicts.

Related Concepts:

  • What is the documentary 'Let the Fire Burn' about?: 'Let the Fire Burn' (2013), produced and directed by Jason Osder, is a documentary about MOVE composed largely of archival footage, offering a historical perspective on the group and its conflicts.

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