They Tried to Crucify Me: The Smoke-Screen of the Cumberlands

"They Tried to Crucify Me or the Smoke-Screen of the Cumberlands" is a compelling political memoir and personal defense written by John W. Langley, a prominent figure in early 20th-century Kentucky politics. The narrative explores the complex intersection of Appalachian life, legislative power, and the legal challenges that defined Langley's career during the Prohibition era. Set against the rugged backdrop of the Cumberland Mountains, this work provides a firsthand account of the political machinations and social tensions of the late 1920s.

Langley addresses the allegations and controversies that led to his significant legal battles, framing his experiences as a struggle against political adversaries and a staunch defense of his public integrity. The book offers valuable insights into the cultural and social landscape of the Cumberlands, detailing the author's deep connection to his constituency and his perspective on regional issues. As a historical document, it captures a specific moment in American history when local loyalty and traditional values often clashed with federal enforcement and partisan conflict. Readers interested in legal history, Southern political dynamics, and the personal narratives of public figures will find this account to be an essential primary source.

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