Ep 3. Born Killers: Leopold and Loeb
Born Killers: Leopold and Loeb is an episode of History's Mysteries, season 10, episode 3. It delves into the infamous case of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two wealthy and intelligent teenagers who committed what was deemed the "crime of the century" in 1924.
The episode begins with the background of Leopold and Loeb's upbringing. Both were privileged and gifted with high intelligence. Leopold was a prodigy in languages and music while Loeb was a brilliant mathematician. They met in their teenage years and became close friends, bonding over their shared love for literature and discussing their shared philosophical beliefs. However, their shared interest in crime is what led to their eventual downfall.
The episode then chronicles the crime itself, detailing the planning and execution of the kidnapping and murder of 14-year-old Bobby Franks. It explores the motivation behind their crime - they believed that they were intellectually superior to others and wanted to commit the perfect crime, one that would prove their superiority. The murder was brutal and senseless, and the two were soon arrested and put on trial.
The trial was highly publicized and garnered national attention. The episode shows the details of the trial and the impact it had on the American public. It also details the role of their high-profile lawyer, Clarence Darrow, who sought to save the boys from the death penalty. His defense strategy was to argue that the boys were not responsible for their actions because of their psychological makeup and social and environmental factors. This defense was controversial at the time but was successful in saving the boys from the death penalty.
The aftermath of the trial is also shown. The boys were sent to prison, and their families were left to deal with the fallout from the crime. The episode explores the impact it had on their families and the legacy they left behind.
Overall, Born Killers: Leopold and Loeb is a fascinating and chilling episode that delves into one of the most notorious crimes in American history. It offers insight into the minds of two young men who believed they were above the law and the consequences that followed. The episode is a must-watch for fans of true crime and those interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature.
