Without Sanctuary: Lynching Photography in America is a 2000 publication featuring a collection of lynching photographs, primarily from the period between 1880 and 1940. These images, often collected as souvenirs by perpetrators and witnesses, offer a disturbingly visceral record of racial terror violence in the United States. The volume includes essays that provide historical context and analyze the images’ cultural significance.
This work serves as a stark reminder of a brutal chapter in American history. It compels viewers to confront the realities of racial violence and its devastating impact. By bringing these images to light, the publication contributes significantly to a deeper understanding of racial injustice, prompting reflection on its legacy and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Its unflinching portrayal of historical atrocities fosters dialogue and encourages critical examination of systemic racism.