RAT Subterranean News Convention Special [Chicago]

VOL I, Issue 4 of RAT Subterranean News – a special issue for the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago.

RAT Subterranean News was first published in March 1968 as New York’s second widespread underground newspaper (the first being the East Village Other), taking a hard-left stance on many social and political issues of the day. This special ‘Map & Muck’ edition, issue #4, was published in anticipation of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, held in late August of 1968. It aimed to help organize and publicize the widespread demonstrations that were expected, as well as provide important information, legal recommendations, etc. for protestors.

A large centerfold map highlights transportation routes across the Chicago region, noting the locations of National Guard Armories and Urban Progress Centers (two nexuses of polarization). Also included are a single-page map of the Chicago Loop, a single-page map of the district around the Chicago Amphitheater (host venue), and a comprehensive index. Notable events mentioned throughout the newspaper include a sunrise beach ceremony with Allen Ginsberg, the ‘unplans’ of the Yippies (with accompanying map of Lincoln Park), and a Radical Organizing Committee (ROC) farewell party.