23 August

Pigasus the Immortal, the Yippie candidate for the US Presidency was arrested on this day in 1968, at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Coinciding with the Yippie Festival of Life, a six day festival, blending of pot and politics into a political grass leaves movement — a cross-fertilisation of the hippie and New Left philosophies. Did I mention Pegasus was a pig?

Mr Kunstler: What were you doing when you were arrested?
The witness: We were arrested announcing the pig’s candidacy for President.
Mr Kunstler: Did Jerry Rubin speak?
The witness: Yes, Jerry Rubin was reading a prepared speech for the pig---the opening sentence was something like, "I, Pigasus, hereby announce my candidacy for the Presidency of the United States." He was interrupted in his talk by the police who arrested us. ...
Mr Kunstler: Do you remember what you were charged with?
The witness: I believe the original charge mentioned was something about an old Chicago law about bringing livestock into the city, or disturbing the peace, or disorderly conduct, and when it came time for the trial, I believe the charge was disorderly conduct.
Mr Kunstler: Were you informed by an officer that the pig had squealed on you?
Mr Foran: Objection. I ask it be stricken.
The witness: Yes.
The Court: I sustain the objection. When an objection is made do not answer until the Court has ruled. . .
Chicago Eight trial