When torture was the law of the land: The third degree | What the History?!

Summary

The main theme is the historical origin and prevalence of the "third degree" interrogation tactic in American policing. Key subjects included the term's potential Masonic roots, its evolution into harsh police questioning and torture, societal reactions and media coverage, and the impactful Wickersham Report. The takeaway is that public outcry and legal rulings led to a significant reduction in the use of the "third degree," prompting the search for alternative interrogation methods.