The Moon Assassins (Random House) is the title of David Grann’s journalistic work dedicated too the extermination of the Indians which occurred in the 1920s in Oklahoma. Among its pages we find a explosive episode; the moment when you decide to blow up the house of some Indians osage. To do this, the killers use nitroglycerin contained in a jar that has a “roll of wick tied to the spout.” The explosive is transported with “great care”; The matter is no less, since nitroglycerin – a compound of nitric acid, sulfuric acid and glycerin – is an unstable oil and, therefore, very sensitive to any movement. One wrong step can be criminal.
Without going further, Ascanio Sobrero, its discoverer, had his face marked by scars from the explosion of a test tube while he was experimenting with it. It happened in 1847, when he worked under the guidance of Professor Théophile-Jules Pelouze in a laboratory at the University of Turin. By adding glycerin to the concentrated mixture of nitric acid and sulfuric acid, the result was the explosion that forever marked his face. With this he warned of his danger.
He initially called the new substance pyroglycerin. It took a few years until 1866, when the instability of nitroglycerin was neutralized with another invention, dynamite, which made it transportable and safe. To do this, Alfred Nobel mixed nitroglycerin with diatomaceous earth, a fossilized algae that he obtained from the Elbe River.
The mixture gave rise to a bar-shaped modeling clay; a safe explosive that was activated only by detonation. It was initially called nobel’s Explosive Gunpowder, but later changed its name to a word of Greek origin meaning power: dynamism (δύναμις). But let’s go back to nitroglycerin, the basis of this piece and a sensitive material whose pharmaceutical use expanded with the arrival of the 20th century.
Its medicinal use was discovered by chance, when it became known that workers in an explosives factory belonging to Alfred Nobel himself were suffering from constant headaches. From the medical reports it appeared that the aforementioned headaches were the effect of the dilation of the blood vessels which, in turn, originated from the manipulation of nitroglycerin.
Its vasodilatory effect was what led Dr. William Murrell - in 1878 – to experiment with it in patients suffering from angina pectoris and hypertension.It should be remembered that the pain of angina is due to narrowing of the blood vessels. Thus we arrive at the end of the last century, when, in 1998, the nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine was awarded to three american pharmacologists: Robert Furchgott Louis Ignarro and Ferid Murad. Thay had discovered the key molecule in the bloodstream identified as nitric oxide, a chemical messenger that causes molecules to relate to each other. In this way the erection, which is initiated by the stimulation of the nervous system, causes the release of nitric oxide.
With this, the effects of nitric oxide illustrate the vasodilatory properties of a chemical compound such as nitroglycerin, discovered as a powerful explosive and used as a base for dynamite.Consequently, it is paradoxical that Alfred Nobel suffered from angina pectoris and did not listen to his doctor when he prescribed nitroglycerin pills, dying in 1896 of coronary heart disease without paying attention to the chemical compound that was the basis of his invention, thus breaking this trajectory of a circle of possibilities that led to his death.
The stone axe It’s a section where I will mount Glezwith a desire for prose, he exercises his particular siege on scientific reality to demonstrate that science and art are complementary forms of knowledge.
What are the key themes addressed in David Grann’s book *The Moon Assassins* regarding the Osage murders?
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to our special interview segment. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. sarah Thompson, a historian specializing in Native American history and the tragic events surrounding the Osage murders in the 1920s. We are here to discuss David Grann’s compelling new book, The Moon assassins, which sheds light on this dark chapter.Thank you for being here, Dr. Thompson.
Dr. Sarah Thompson: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial topic that deserves more attention, and I’m glad to be part of the discussion.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Grann’s book explores the brutal extermination of the Osage Indians in Oklahoma, particularly the shocking act of violence involving nitroglycerin. How notable is this incident in the broader context of the violence faced by Native Americans?
Dr. Thompson: It’s incredibly significant. the Osage murders were not isolated incidents; they were part of a systematic effort to dispossess Native Americans of their land and wealth. The osage had become wealthy from oil discoveries on their land, leading to jealousy and violence from those who wanted to exploit that wealth. The use of such extreme measures, like blowing up homes, reflects the desperation and ruthlessness of the perpetrators.
Editor: That’s chilling to hear. Grann describes not just the violence, but also the indifference of society at the time. What does this tell us about the historical treatment of Native Americans in the United States?
Dr. thompson: It highlights a broader historical narrative of neglect and violence against Indigenous peoples. Throughout American history, Native Americans have often been seen as obstacles to progress. Even the legal systems that were supposed to protect them frequently failed or were complicit in their victimization. The Osage killings reveal how racial and economic prejudices can lead to brutal acts without accountability.
Editor: In the book, Grann makes a strong case for the Osage murders being a foundational moment in American criminal justice as it aimed to address the corruption and violence against Native Americans. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely. These murders prompted significant attention from federal authorities, including the newly formed FBI. It was one of the first major cases for J. Edgar Hoover,who aimed to establish the Bureau as a capable force in solving such crimes. The investigation uncovered various layers of corruption, not only among the perpetrators but also within local law enforcement. This moment marks a turning point where the government had to confront its failures regarding Native American rights and protection.
Editor: Looking at the book as a whole,what do you think Grann hopes to accomplish with The Moon Assassins?
Dr. Thompson: I believe Grann aims to bring to light a story that has long been buried in American history. By shedding light on these horrific events, he emphasizes the need for accountability and recognition of Native American history. it’s not just a recounting of past events; it’s a call to address the ongoing consequences of such violence and the continued disenfranchisement of Native communities today.
Editor: Powerful insights, Dr. Thompson. as we wrap up, what message do you hope readers take away from The Moon Assassins and the history it delves into?
Dr. Thompson: I hope readers come away with a greater understanding of the complexity of American history — one that acknowledges both triumphs and tragedies. The stories of the Osage should serve as reminders of the resilience of Native peoples and the need for continued advocacy and support for their rights and dignity today.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your expertise and insights. The Moon Assassins is undoubtedly a crucial read for anyone wanting to understand this chapter of history and its implications today.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for highlighting this important topic. It was a pleasure discussing it with you.