Tyranny of the Majority
An Interactive Exploration of Government Action Against Fringe Groups
Understanding the Concept
“Tyranny of the majority” describes a scenario where a government or ruling group, ostensibly representing the majority, pursues its interests to the detriment and oppression of a minority faction. This can manifest through laws, social pressure, or direct action. This report explores this concept through three pivotal and controversial standoffs in American history. Each case study examines the events, outcomes, and lingering questions when a government’s power is brought to bear on groups with political or religious views considered outside the norm. By exploring these incidents, we can better understand the complex and often fraught balance between state authority and individual liberty.
Case Studies Dashboard
Comparative Analysis
While each incident had unique origins, comparing them reveals patterns in government response, scale, and consequence. The following visualizations compare the human cost and the duration of each standoff, providing a stark overview of their relative intensity and tragic outcomes. This comparative lens helps to contextualize each event within a broader pattern of conflict between the state and non-conformist groups.
Standoffs by the Numbers
| Incident | Siege Length | Civilian Deaths | Agent Deaths |
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