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Anybody curious about what General George S. Patton wrote on this subject (of riots and insurrection and the like)?

He wrote a piece titled “FEDERAL TROOPS IN DOMESTIC DISTURBANCES” and it was dated November 1932.

Here is an excerpt:

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Tactics:

In general, never halt, except to give warning with a time limit and act instantly at the end of the period specified. Never permit a mob to gain a success. Should they do so, make instant and vigorous reprisals. When a mob starts to move, keep it on the run but always leave it a line of retreat; a cornered rat will fight desperately, while on the other hand, movement to the rear engenders panic.

In an attack, move first against the flanks via side streets using cavalry. While this action is in progress, start a rear attack also with cavalry but don’t push it home. Finally, make the frontal attack.

Tanks are useful against barricades or for forcing doors of houses but they must be closely supported by infantry as they can be rushed and destroyed by gasoline. Such a success encourages a mob.

Street Formations:

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If an enemy is met in a street, deploy completely across the street in close order and direct him to fall back, unless he is in equal or smaller numbers, in which case keep moving and use the bayonet to encourage his retreat. If they are running, a few good wounds in the buttocks will encourage them. ...

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There is a lot more, he covers some of the legalese of involving federal troops as well, and from his POV and period in time (of course).

More here:

http://pattonhq.com/textfiles/federal.html