Ep 6. The True Story of Mississippi Burning

In episode 6 of season 1 of The FBI Files titled "The True Story of Mississippi Burning," viewers get an inside look into one of the FBI's most high-profile investigations, the 1964 murders of three civil rights workers in rural Mississippi.

The episode begins by setting the scene of a deeply divided America in the 1960s, where efforts to establish equal voting rights and eliminate racial discrimination were met with fierce resistance from those in power. Against this backdrop, the disappearance of three young civil rights workers - James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner - sent shockwaves through the country and forced the FBI to act quickly.

The FBI's investigation into the murders lasted over a month and required the assistance of hundreds of agents and support staff. The episode features interviews with FBI agents who worked on the case at the time, including lead investigator Roy K. Moore, as well as archival footage of news reports and interviews with key individuals involved in the case.

The investigation revealed that the three men had been kidnapped by members of the Ku Klux Klan and murdered in a remote area of Mississippi. The FBI interviewed over 2,000 people and utilized advanced forensic techniques at the time to piece together the evidence and identify those responsible. The investigation eventually led to the arrest and conviction of several members of the Ku Klux Klan, including Imperial Wizard Sam Bowers.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given an inside look at the challenges faced by FBI agents and their commitment to justice in the face of deep-seated racism and corruption. The episode explores the lengths to which the FBI went to gather evidence and build the case, including the use of wiretapping and the deployment of undercover agents.

One key aspect of the investigation that is highlighted in the episode is the cooperation between the FBI and the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, which had its own team of investigators working in Mississippi at the time. The episode shows how the two agencies worked together to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.

Overall, "The True Story of Mississippi Burning" is a fascinating and detailed account of one of the FBI's most important cases in its history. The episode provides valuable insight into the FBI's investigative techniques and showcases the bravery and dedication of the agents involved. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of upholding justice and fighting against hatred and bigotry.