Why Oj represented more than just himself

OJ simpson is one of the most recognizable names in American history due to his controversial trial. There is still a debate the rages today discussing the significance of his importantce and his impact on American history. Many people were discouraged when he won the trail along with many people who were quite happy. After learning about it in class, it is interesting to take another look into OJ Simpson's legacy (specifically with the trial).

Many Tv shows have taken a look into the trail including this years Oscar winning documentary that took an 8 hour look at the trial. Although the literal trial was about a murder, in actually it represented something much more than that. The symbolic meaning behind the trial took on the events triggered by Rodney King, a taxi driver who was beat unjustly by police officers in LA.

For many people, the trial took on the meaning of the racial tension and injustice faced by African Americans throughout the US. When OJ won, many black Americans rejoiced not because all of them believed he was innocent but for the underlying ideology of it all. If a rich white man had murdered someone, in many cases, he would get away with it. Rich Americans, specifically those who are white, get away with countless crimes because they can afford great lawyers. The trial victory showed finally to many black Americans that there might still be some hope for the system.