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FRUIT: Georgetown sophomore and future civil rights champion BILL
CLINTON sends his “Mammaw” a racially insensitive postcard
Description
Early ALS signed “Bill,” on the correspondence side of a 6.75 x 3.5
picture postcard, no date [postmarked February 2, 1966]. Clinton, then
a college student at Georgetown, writes to his grandmother,Edith
Cassidy, whom he addresses as “Mammaw.” In full:
“Thought I would send you
one of your cards just to prove I am using them! My tests are over and
I’m just starting the second term. Hope you are well and happy, Say
hello to Buddy & Ollie—See you at Easter.”
Clinton has addressed the postcard, “Mrs. Edith Cassidy, Hope Nursing
Home, Main Street, Hope, Arkansas,” adding his return address, “Wm. J.
Clinton, Box 289, GUDG, 20007.” The postcard bears a ballpoint
notation under the address, “Feb. 3, 1966,” possibly in Cassidy’s hand.
Apart from the early date, the most notable feature of the postcard is
clearly the image: a grossly stereotypical caricature of a young
African-American boy wearing an idiotic grin as he “shines” a
watermelon. A throwback to the outrageously broad portrayals of
African-Americans of a century earlier, Clinton’s choice of postcard is
startling on a number of levels: not only was he writing in the midst
of the most active civil-rights movement in American history, but he
himself would go on to earn a reputation as one of the greatest
champions of racial minorities among modern American presidents. The
postcard is housed in a handsome custom clamshell box together with a
copy of Clinton’s correspondence and two portraits. In fine condition,
with a small brush to first letter of signature, a bit of mild toning,
and a light vertical crease through address panel. A most remarkable
and revealing item from a president whose legacy only continues to
evolve! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.��
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