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Local Injustice
Rosa Parks, a local activist and seamstress, refused to give up her seat on a segregated Montgomery bus to a white passenger in 1955. -
Grassroots Response
In response to Parks' arrest, the Women's Political Council (WPC), led by Jo Ann Robinson, published a call to action, supporting a one-day boycott of the Montgomery bus system. -
Formation of Leadership
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. founded the Montgomery Improvement Association (MIA) to organize and lead the boycott movement. -
Boycott Begins
The Montgomery Bus Boycott begins, with extensive involvement from the local African American population, who refuse to take the buses. -
Local Resistance
Despite harassment, intimidation, and legal obstacles, including arrests, the boycott persists with steadfast determination. -
National Attention
The Montgomery Bus Boycott draws national prominence, with media outlets around the country covering the ongoing protest against segregation and discrimination. -
Impact and Legacy
The Montgomery Bus Boycott is a catalyst for the larger civil rights movement, prompting similar rallies and acts of resistance around the country.It emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and nonviolent resistance in achieving social and political transformation.
The leadership and organizational structures formed during the boycott paved the way for future civil rights activities and campaigns. -
Legal Victory
In Browder v. Gayle, the Supreme Court determined that segregated sitting on buses was unconstitutional, essentially ending the boycott.