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Civil Rights Movement
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Brown v. Board of Education
Declaring racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, it brought hope of equal educational opportunities for all. However, this transition was put to full use slowly, since black students were still facing racism and hostility. Black administrators and teachers had lost their jobs, as schools began to shut down. Nonetheless, the Brown v. Board of Education inspired further activism for racial equality. -
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Montgomery Bus Boycott
The Montgomery Bus Boycott victory the power and importance of collective action. After the success, black people were now legally free to sit wherever, following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Browder v. Gayle (1956), calling segregation on public buses unconstitutional. Although this was a victory, black churches and homes were bombed, and many black protestors were facing threats, job losses, violent attacks, and arrests. -
Little Rock Nine
In the events of Little Rock Nine, black students faced racism and harassment, this time of chaos was stirred up from white supremacy towards the intelligent black students. Black students had to be escorted at all times with personal guards. Despite the one sided feud, the graduation of the students was seen as a symbol of hope for black people. -
Sit-in Movement
Following the brave acts of black Americans, many businesses began desegregating their lunch counters in response to the growing protests and economic pressure. The sit-ins grew international attention and raked in support from across the globe. By the end of 1961, over 70,000 people had participated in sit-ins. The sit-ins showed an example and inspired black people to stand up for what they know is right, to join together to continue activism towards change. -
Freedom Rides
Ultimately, the freedom rides dismantled segregation in interstate travel. After the 1961 Interstate Commerce commission, black Americans could legally use the same buses, waiting rooms, restrooms, and restaurants as white passengers, a victory in a racially oppressive era. -
Birmingham Campaign
The Birmingham Campaign brought times of violence and brutality against black protestors. Adults and children were attacked with water hoses and police dog attacks. However, because of the growing attention from the campaign, it brought international shock and support for African Americans and anyone who fell victim of police brutality motived by police commissioner 'Bull' Connor. -
March on Washington
Philip Randolph planned a march on Washington to demand jobs for African Americans in the booming wartime economy. The march on Washington brought a new era of hope and 'dreams' for a new and better life for all people. African Americans regained their inner strength and purpose in continuing to fight for their rights as people. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech inspired thousands and strengthened the push for legislative change. -
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March On Selma
Peaceful protestors during the march on selma were faced with violence from law enforcement and white supremacists, leading to national outrage and increased support for civil rights. This support prompted the Voting Rights Act of 1965 pass. However, most African Americans still struggled with systemic racism, but it was one big leap closer to true peace and equality for all. -
Voting Rights Act of 1965
Resulting the Voting Rights Act of 1965, black Americans were now more politically involved. With the ability to vote, Black Americans gained more political power and opportunity to vote for government officials. This act also paved away for more representation of black Americans. -
Assassination of Martin Luther king jr.
The assassination of martyr Martin Luther King brought anger, grief, and despair. Now that peace leader MLK had passed, people turned to more 'militant' strategies into overcoming oppression. The death of MLK prompted the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which aimed to combat housing discrimination. Non-whites were able to be more secure in their homes.