Seattle Newsletter (August 5th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Seattle Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Jeff Bezos’ wealth drops by $21 billion as Amazon stock sinks on AI fears.

  • Upcoming Seattle Mariners match

  • A deep-dive into the life of Walter B. Beals

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without.” 

–Confucius

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the Seattle ferry system, the largest in the U.S., providing services to both local islands and the Olympic Peninsula?

A) King County Ferry System

B) Puget Sound Express

C) Washington State Ferries

D) Clipper Vacations

Answer to Week 31's Trivia:

The first automated teller machine (ATM) in Seattle was installed by D) Seattle-First National Bank.

News

💼 Business

Seattle restaurant owners feel weary as Storefront Repair Fund dries up. (Link)

Average rate on a 30-year mortgage falls to 6.73%, lowest level since early February. (Link)

🏒 Sports

As UW officially joins Big Ten, new AD Pat Chun is ready to take Huskies into new era. (Link)

Mariners pitcher George Kirby pays tribute to Tim Wakefield with first pitch. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Jeff Bezos’ wealth drops by $21 billion as Amazon stock sinks on AI fears. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Detroit Tigers at Seattle Mariners
T-Mobile Park, Seattle
Tuesday, August 6 to Thursday, August 8, 2024 | (More info)

⚾ New York Mets at Seattle Mariners
T-Mobile Park, Seattle
Friday, August 9, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Olivia Rodrigo
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 Romy
Showbox at the Market, Seattle
Wednesday, August 7, 2024 | (More info)

Family Friendly events:

🍦 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Barbecue & Ice Cream Social with Live Music
300 West Harrison Street, Seattle
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “An eco-city Seattle with lush greenery and no visible technology” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Seattle Historical Events

Asian Exclusion Act Protests (Early 20th Century) - Seattle's Asian communities protest against discriminatory immigration policies.

In the early 20th century, Seattle became a focal point for a significant and impactful challenge against the discriminatory immigration policies of the time, specifically those targeting Asian communities. This period saw the United States enforce a series of legislative actions aimed at restricting Asian immigration, most notably the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the first significant law restricting immigration into the United States of any ethnic group, and later the Immigration Act of 1924 that effectively banned all immigration from Asia. These policies were a reflection of the prevailing attitudes of the time, rooted in racism and economic protectionism, which sought to limit the presence of Asian individuals in American society. The Asian communities of Seattle, notably the Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino populations, found themselves at the sharp end of these harsh legislative measures, facing not only the prospect of separation from their families but also severe limitations on their economic opportunities and personal freedoms.

In response to these injustices, Seattle's Asian communities organized and led a series of protests that marked a significant chapter in the Asian-American civil rights movement. Community leaders, labor organizers, and ordinary citizens came together, transcending national and ethnic divides, to stand in solidarity against the exclusionary immigration policies. They employed a variety of tactics, including organizing boycotts, filing legal challenges, and staging public demonstrations. Moreover, they sought to engage the broader public and lawmakers through advocacy and public education, working to highlight the contributions of Asian immigrants to American society and the injustice of the discriminatory laws. These efforts were driven by a deep belief in the principles of equality and justice, and a conviction that America could be a place of opportunity for all, irrespective of race or country of origin.

The protests in Seattle set important precedents and had lasting impacts beyond their immediate goals. Though the battle against exclusion and for equal rights was long and fraught with challenges, these early protests contributed to a gradual shift in public opinion and laid the groundwork for future legal and legislative changes. The courage and solidarity demonstrated by Seattle's Asian communities in the early 20th century played a pivotal role in the eventual repeal of exclusionary immigration laws, notably influencing the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which abolished the national origins quota system. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring fight for civil rights and equality, reminding us of the importance of standing against injustice and for the inclusion and dignity of all individuals in the fabric of American society.

Famous People From Seattle

Walter B. Beals (1876–1960)

Walter B. Beals, a key figure in the legal aftermath of World War II, is celebrated for his contributions to international law and justice, particularly through his work at the Nuremberg Trials. His career spans from significant cases in the United States to historic international trials, epitomizing a relentless pursuit of justice.

Early Life and Education (1876-1899)

Born in 1876 in Washington state, Walter B. Beals grew up in a period of rapid American expansion and change. He pursued law at the University of Washington, exhibiting early on a keen sense of justice and a sharp intellect, traits that would define his career in the legal profession.

Into the Realm of Law (1900-1917)

After completing his education, Beals delved into law practice, quickly making a name for himself as a brilliant lawyer with a penchant for detail and a strong moral compass. His early career saw him tackling varied cases, displaying his adaptability and dedication to the law.

Military Service and Further Legal Practice (1917-1945)

With the onset of World War I, Beals served in the military, an experience that broadened his perspective on international affairs and the implications of conflict. Returning to legal practice post-war, he became a respected judge in Seattle, known for his fairness and legal acumen.

A Connection to Seattle (Throughout Career)

Beals’ legal career was deeply intertwined with the city of Seattle. He contributed significantly to the legal landscape of the city, serving on the bench and being involved in landmark decisions that shaped the community and its approach to justice.

Appointment to Nuremberg (1945)

As World War II concluded, Beals was selected to serve as a judge at the Nuremberg Trials, an appointment that underscored his standing in the legal community and his unwavering commitment to justice.

The Nuremberg Trials (1945-1946)

At Nuremberg, Beals faced the monumental task of adjudicating the crimes of key Nazi officials. His legal expertise and ethical fortitude were pivotal in the trials, which were among the first of their kind and set precedents in international law.

Post-War Contributions and Advocacy (1946-1955)

Following his service at Nuremberg, Beals continued to advocate for the principles of justice and human rights. He played a significant role in legal reforms and the establishment of mechanisms aimed at preventing future atrocities.

Reflections and Legacy (1955-1960)

Towards the end of his life, Beals reflected on his contributions to law and justice, emphasizing the importance of accountability and the rule of law. His legacy includes his impactful decisions at Nuremberg and his broader contributions to legal practice and ethics.

The End of an Era (1960)

Walter B. Beals passed away in 1960, leaving behind a significant legacy in the field of law, characterized by his commitment to justice, integrity, and humanity.

Continued Influence and Remembrance (Post-1960)

Beals' work continues to inspire legal professionals and scholars, contributing to ongoing discussions on international law, human rights, and the importance of legal accountability on the global stage.

Key Achievements of Walter B. Beals:

  • Served as a judge at the pivotal Nuremberg Trials, helping to lay the groundwork for modern international criminal law.

  • Played a central role in post-war legal reforms and the establishment of international human rights standards.

  • Renowned judge in Seattle, contributing significantly to the legal community and jurisprudence in the United States.

  • Military service during World War I, which enriched his understanding of international conflict and justice.

Walter B. Beals' life was dedicated to the pursuit of justice, both within the United States and on the international stage. His work at the Nuremberg Trials remains a cornerstone in the development of international law, reflecting his commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions during times of war. Beals' legacy is defined by his unwavering dedication to the principles of justice, his significant contributions to legal practice, and his role in shaping the post-World War II legal order.

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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