The American Mercury on Leo Frank’s 1913 Trial: Week Four Testimony Under Scrutiny

Part of The American Mercury’s series on the 1913 Leo Frank trial, this video covers the fourth week (August 18–24, 1913), focusing on Leo Frank’s testimony as he took the stand to defend himself against the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan. Using the trial’s Brief of Evidence, it details Frank’s unsworn statement, where he denied the crime, asserting he was in his office and portraying himself as a victim of prejudice. The episode examines the prosecution’s cross-examination, which focused on Frank’s nervous behavior on April 26, 1913, and inconsistencies in his account, as well as the forensic evidence tying him to the crime scene. Set in a climate of antisemitism claims and public tension, the trial led to Frank’s conviction, his 1915 lynching, and the establishment of the Anti-Defamation League, a case that remains a touchstone for debates on justice.