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Notes -
I won't comment on lynchings in the South specifically since that has a bunch of complicated factors, but when it comes to vigilante justice generally, it's one of the places where I agree with Hlynka that there is a "Leviathan-shaped hole". If the state shows itself consistently unable or unwilling to enforce order, then they no longer have the right to rule, and the right to power falls to whoever can and will enforce it. The "consistently" part here being key, even the best rulers will make occasional mistakes or have occasional failures, and I would not find vigilante justice justified here.
This is why things like two tier policing, revolving doors in the courthouse where a judge lets a career criminal out on bond for the 50th time, etc. are so dangerous. They undermine the legitimacy of the current state, and give greater legitimacy to any challengers, whether lone vigilantes or more organized opposition.
Right, I think this would be a case where "there is no lawful way to achieve redress" and in the extremity you describe there is arguably a duty to enforce justice and create a new justice system with other people of goodwill who share your moral commitments.
Yes, I 100% agree. A very underrated argument for harsh criminal penalties is precisely so that those who would take matters into their own hands feel no need to do so.
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