I don't think it was "set up". Sure racial tensions were at an extreme level in that period of time but I feel like these guys fed off the attention they received from each other and by extension everyone else around them. Gangsters and celebrities loved that shit. It's more awkward to say, "Especially in the 60's when blacks in America were starting to think and live on their own terms". Not trying to pick a fight but this sounds a bit fucked up.

Either way great pic @Mark