James Meredith

By jgriffee

  • Train Racism

    James Meredith first witnessed institutionalized racism while riding a train with his brother in Chicago. Growing up on a farm, this was new to Meredith and changed how he thought about other people.

  • The Service

    After finishing highschool, Meredith spent 9 years in the U.S. Army Air Force. This put military discipline and patriotism into Meredith's belief. I can relate to his service, due to my uncles.

  • The Ole Miss Application

    Meredith applied to the all-white school of Ole Miss and was admitted, but his admission was withdrawn after his race was discovered. Meredith won rights to attend the school after a Supreme Court ruling in his favor. The event changed Meredith's views on equality in schools.

  • Republican Party

    Meredith became active in the Republican Party during the 1960's. He ran for positions later in the House and Senate.

  • The Blockade

    When Meredith went to register for classes a blockade was formed by protesters and students to prevent him from registering. Meredith continued to stay strong after this event occured.

  • Mississippi's First

    On October 1st, 1962 James Meredith became the first African American student to enroll at the Ole Miss. Perseverence became a key belief in his mindset, and it showed after finally enrolling.

  • Graduation

    Meredith graduated with a political science degree in 1963. His political science degree encouraged him to continue beng actve within the Republican Party.

  • Three Years

    James Meredith wrote a book of his accounts at Ole Miss in the book Three Years In Mississippi. His book was published in 1966, sharing his beliefs and experiences to the public.

  • Running In The House

    Meredith ran for a House seat in 1967 (and lost) against Adam Clayton Powell Jr. After the loss Meredith continued to stay strong and would eventually run again for the Republican Party.

  • The Senate

    In 1972, Meredith unsucessfully ran for a seat in Senate, losing to Democrat James Eastland. Although he lost, Meredith served as a domestic advisor for a senator so that he may stay active in politics.