Words matter. What we call something shapes how we think about it and often how we act on it. What do you call the events of 1/6? Demonstrations? Protests? Chaos? Riots? Insurrection? Domestic terrorism? Attempted coup?
The people gathered at the ellipse were demonstrating and protesting - demonstrating support for President Trump, protesting an election they were told had been stolen. Some of those folks headed to the Capitol and events changed.
Was it chaos there? “Chaos” deprives people of agency. It excuses the inexcusable, and so defends the indefensible.
Riot? This is the mildest accurate term. Five people dead, over fifty police officers injured, flag poles used as weapons, pipe bombs, property damage. At the least, this was a riot. Anyone who chose to stay after it turned into a riot chose to associate with a riot.
Insurrection? That is “acts of violence against the government or its officers.” People chanting, “Hang Pence!” Police officers hurt or killed. Members of Congress threatened. Pretty clearly, insurrection.
Domestic terrorism? “Terrorism” is the attempt to change public policy through fear. The intention here was to prevent the certification of the election through fear of the mob. Domestic because it is Americans doing it to Americans.
Attempted coup? Here we get into foggier areas. Did the rioters have a clear expectation and goal of retaining President Trump in office? It seems likely, but finding their statements in the days beforehand will make that clearer.
What do you call the events of 1/6?
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End note: a coup to stay in power after a term has ended is an “autogolpe,” a self coup.