Tarring Cargo Funeral Home Secrets Exposed - Away State Journal
Though tarring and feathering is closely associated with the vigilante justice of the American Revolution, it actually originated in the 12th century and was practiced throughout history.
Tarring and feathering is a form of punishment which was developed in 12th century England. It spread across feudal Europe, and was also practiced in many European colonies, once Europeans began exploring and colonizing the globe.
Tarring and feathering was usually used as a form of vigilante justice and became a favorite of early American patriots in their protests against British taxation.
In tarring and feather, pine tar was poured, brushed or “bedawbed” on the victim, either on bare skin or, more mercifully, over clothes. The victims were then rolled or showered in feathers, then paraded around in the sticky, feathery mess.
Tarring and feathering is a public punishment where a person is covered in hot or warm tar, rolled in feathers, and paraded before a crowd. It was meant less to kill than to humiliate, intimidate, and mark the victim as someone who had offended the community, turning their body into a moving symbol of shame and outrage.
During the War for Independence, the tarring of Tories happened with greater regularity and ferocity, resulting in the deaths of several victims. Tarring and feathering was a barbaric practice and, sadly, an effective one.
Description: These two prints show the Revolutionary practice of tarring and feathering royal officials and others whom the Sons of Liberty felt deserved punishment.