The Rat Pack and the Vietnam War: Sinatra's Switch and Davis's Struggles
The Rat Pack’s Background and Political Views
The Rat Pack, a legendary group of entertainers in the 1950s and 1960s, comprised of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. This group of musical performers and other celebrities were known for their magnetism and charismatic appeal, often seen in various high-profile settings, including the casino floors of Las Vegas.
Frank Sinatra, the
The Political Paradox of Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra, the
Changing Political Stances
During the 1950s, Frank Sinatra was heavily involved in political activities, particularly in supporting left-wing causes and being a strong voice against nuclear testing. However, his political views shifted significantly over the years. In the mid-1960s, Sinatra, once a prominent symbol of liberal causes, began to distance himself from the Democratic party and started aligning with the Republican party. This shift was likely influenced by a combination of personal, financial, and political factors, including his choices in films and political contributions.
Sammy Davis Jr. and Racism
Sammy Davis Jr., on the other hand, was faced with a very different set of challenges. While FDR was a firebrand liberal, politics were intertwined with personal struggles and battles against racism. The Rat Pack members, especially Davis, dealt with significant domestic and societal racial issues. Davis was one of the few Black entertainers to achieve stardom during a time of segregation and racial discrimination. He often faced intense scrutiny and racism, even from fellow entertainers and within the entertainment industry.
Public Demonstrations and Private Battles
Despite his superstar status, Davis faced numerous public demonstrations of racism. One notable incident occurred when he was thrown out of the Copacabana nightclub in 1966 due to his race. This incident, which profoundly impacted Davis both professionally and personally, drew significant attention and furthered the conversation about racial discrimination in the entertainment industry. Davis's public displays of activism, despite facing intense backlash, underscored the ongoing struggle against racial injustice.
The Vietnam War and its Impact on the Rat Pack
The Rat Pack, like many other American celebrities of that era, was indirectly affected by the Vietnam War. However, the group as a whole was largely apolitical, focusing more on entertainment than on political activism. As a result, their public discussions about the war were minimal, and they largely kept their views to themselves. Sinatra, the most politically active member, showed ambivalence towards the Vietnam War, calling it a "sinister and criminal act" in his personal journals.
Personal Views and Public Silence
While Frank Sinatra often expressed his views through his music and personal writings, he kept his political stance on the Vietnam War largely a private matter. During a pivotal event, the Rat Pack members attended a presidential charity event in 1968, although Sinatra conveyed his dissatisfaction with the war in a letter to Senator Robert Kennedy. Addressing the war publicly would have alienated a significant portion of his fanbase, especially given the divided opinions on the conflict in society.
Sammy Davis Jr. and the War
Sammy Davis Jr., who had fought in World War II, also had mixed feelings about the Vietnam War. His military service and experiences during World War II shaped his perspective. Although he was outspoken about his opinions on various social and racial issues, his personal views on the Vietnam War were not well-documented in public or private spaces. This silence suggests a desire to avoid polarizing the public and minimizing potential backlash.
Conclusion and Long-Term Impact
The Rat Pack's complex relationship with the Vietnam War is a reflection of the broader social and political climate of the 1960s. While Sinatra's political views evolved, and Davis's personal struggles were well-documented, the group as a whole maintained a focus on entertainment. Their personal and public stances on the Vietnam War highlight the shifting dynamics of celebrity, politics, and public perception during a tumultuous period in American history.
Understanding the Rat Pack's stance on the Vietnam War, and the personal and professional challenges they faced, provides valuable insights into the intersection of celebrity and politics. This is particularly important in examining how public figures navigate sensitive political issues in the public eye.