Question

Why was the new york draft riot defined as a riot and not just considered a mob incident?

a. there was some violence.
b. the violence targeted only one group.
c. there was no clear purpose to the riot.
d. the violence was neither organized nor directed

Answer 1

The New York Draft Riot of 1863 was a targeted, racially motivated outbreak of violence, resulting in over 100 deaths and major property damage, primarily directed at African Americans and Union supporters. The correct answer is option b.

Step-by-step explanation:

The New York Draft Riot of 1863 is defined as a riot rather than just a mob incident because of its scale, targeted violence, and clear objectives. It involved large-scale organized violence with over 100 people killed and property damage estimated at $1.5 million. Moreover, the violence was heavily racially motivated, with specific targets such as African Americans and entities associated with union support.

The correct option to the question why the New York Draft Riot was defined as a riot is b. the violence targeted only one group. The riot reflected deep racial tension, with African Americans being primary targets. This violence, along with attacks on institutions such as an orphanage for black children, draft offices and the homes of wealthy New Yorkers believed to be Republicans, indicates that the riot had specific objectives and was not a random or unorganized outbreak of violence.