Civil Rights Movement Begins QuizItem 6:In 3-5 Sentences, Summarize The Event Of The Little Rock Nine And Analyze Its Significance In The History Of Civil Rights In The United States.

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Introduction

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was a pivotal moment in the country's history, marked by numerous events and protests that aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination. One of the most significant events in this movement was the Little Rock Nine, a group of nine African American students who bravely integrated Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas in 1957. This event not only challenged the status quo of racial segregation but also marked a significant turning point in the history of civil rights in the United States.

The Little Rock Nine

In 1957, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) filed a lawsuit against the Little Rock School District, arguing that the segregation of schools was unconstitutional. The court ultimately ruled in favor of the NAACP, and the Little Rock School Board was ordered to integrate the city's schools. However, the board refused to comply, and the governor of Arkansas, Orval Faubus, deployed the National Guard to prevent the nine African American students from entering the school.

The nine students, who became known as the Little Rock Nine, were:

  1. Melba Pattillo Beals
  2. Elizabeth Eckford
  3. Ernest Green
  4. Thelma Mothershed Wair
  5. Gloria Ray Karlmark
  6. Carlotta Walls LaNier
  7. Terrence Roberts
  8. Jefferson Thomas
  9. Minnijean Brown Trickey

These students, all between the ages of 15 and 17, were determined to attend Little Rock Central High School, despite the opposition from the governor and the National Guard. On September 4, 1957, the nine students attempted to enter the school, but they were met with violence and intimidation from a mob of white protesters.

The Significance of the Little Rock Nine

The Little Rock Nine's bravery and determination marked a significant turning point in the Civil Rights Movement. Their actions helped to galvanize the movement, inspiring other African Americans to take a stand against racial segregation and discrimination. The event also drew national attention, with President Dwight D. Eisenhower eventually deploying federal troops to Little Rock to enforce the court's ruling and protect the students.

The Little Rock Nine's experience was not without its challenges, however. The students faced intense harassment and intimidation from their white classmates, and some were even forced to attend a separate school for African American students. Despite these challenges, the students persevered, and their determination ultimately led to the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School.

Legacy of the Little Rock Nine

The Little Rock Nine's legacy extends far beyond their individual experiences. Their bravery and determination helped to pave the way for future civil rights movements, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington. The event also marked a significant shift in the national conversation around racial segregation and discrimination, with many Americans beginning to question the morality of these practices.

In 1999, the Little Rock Nine were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor awarded by Congress. The medal was presented to the students in recognition of their bravery and determination in the face of overwhelming opposition.

Conclusion

The Little Rock Nine's experience was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, marking a significant turning point in the history of civil rights in the United States. Their bravery and determination helped to galvanize the movement, inspiring other African Americans to take a stand against racial segregation and discrimination. The event also drew national attention, with President Eisenhower eventually deploying federal troops to Little Rock to enforce the court's ruling and protect the students.

Today, the Little Rock Nine's legacy continues to inspire Americans of all ages. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. As we continue to navigate the complexities of racial segregation and discrimination, the Little Rock Nine's bravery and determination serve as a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable society.

Timeline of Events

  • 1954: The Supreme Court rules in Brown v. Board of Education that segregation in public schools is unconstitutional.
  • 1957: The NAACP files a lawsuit against the Little Rock School District, arguing that the segregation of schools is unconstitutional.
  • September 4, 1957: The Little Rock Nine attempt to enter Little Rock Central High School, but are met with violence and intimidation from a mob of white protesters.
  • September 24, 1957: President Eisenhower deploys federal troops to Little Rock to enforce the court's ruling and protect the students.
  • 1999: The Little Rock Nine are awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their bravery and determination.

Key Players

  • Melba Pattillo Beals: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Elizabeth Eckford: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Ernest Green: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Thelma Mothershed Wair: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Gloria Ray Karlmark: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Carlotta Walls LaNier: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Terrence Roberts: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Jefferson Thomas: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Minnijean Brown Trickey: One of the nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.
  • Orval Faubus: The governor of Arkansas who deployed the National Guard to prevent the Little Rock Nine from entering the school.
  • Dwight D. Eisenhower: The President of the United States who deployed federal troops to Little Rock to enforce the court's ruling and protect the students.
    The Little Rock Nine: A Turning Point in the Civil Rights Movement ===========================================================

Q&A: The Little Rock Nine

Q: What was the Little Rock Nine?

A: The Little Rock Nine was a group of nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas in 1957. They were the first African American students to attend the school, which had previously been all-white.

Q: Why was the integration of Little Rock Central High School significant?

A: The integration of Little Rock Central High School was significant because it marked a major milestone in the Civil Rights Movement. It was one of the first times that African American students had been allowed to attend a previously all-white school in the South.

Q: What was the reaction of the white community to the integration of Little Rock Central High School?

A: The white community in Little Rock was strongly opposed to the integration of the school. Many white students and parents refused to attend school with the African American students, and some even threatened violence against them.

Q: What was the role of Governor Orval Faubus in the integration of Little Rock Central High School?

A: Governor Orval Faubus was a strong opponent of the integration of Little Rock Central High School. He deployed the National Guard to prevent the African American students from entering the school, and he also encouraged white students to boycott the school.

Q: What was the response of President Dwight D. Eisenhower to the situation in Little Rock?

A: President Dwight D. Eisenhower was concerned about the situation in Little Rock and the potential for violence. He deployed federal troops to the city to enforce the court's ruling and protect the African American students.

Q: What was the outcome of the integration of Little Rock Central High School?

A: The integration of Little Rock Central High School was ultimately successful. The African American students were able to attend the school without incident, and the school became a model for other schools in the South.

Q: What was the impact of the Little Rock Nine on the Civil Rights Movement?

A: The Little Rock Nine had a significant impact on the Civil Rights Movement. Their bravery and determination helped to galvanize the movement, and their actions inspired other African Americans to take a stand against racial segregation and discrimination.

Q: What awards and recognition have the Little Rock Nine received?

A: The Little Rock Nine have received numerous awards and recognitions for their bravery and determination. In 1999, they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor awarded by Congress.

Q: What can we learn from the Little Rock Nine?

A: We can learn several things from the Little Rock Nine. First, we can learn about the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. Second, we can learn about the power of courage and determination in the face of adversity. Finally, we can learn about the importance of perseverance and the impact that one person or group can have on the world.

Additional Resources

  • The Little Rock Nine: A Photographic History by Sondra Gordy and Susan E. Hirsch
  • The Little Rock Nine: A Story of Courage and Determination by Melba Pattillo Beals
  • The Little Rock Nine: A Turning Point in the Civil Rights Movement by the National Park Service

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What was the Little Rock Nine? A: The Little Rock Nine was a group of nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas in 1957.
  • Q: Why was the integration of Little Rock Central High School significant? A: The integration of Little Rock Central High School was significant because it marked a major milestone in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Q: What was the reaction of the white community to the integration of Little Rock Central High School? A: The white community in Little Rock was strongly opposed to the integration of the school.
  • Q: What was the role of Governor Orval Faubus in the integration of Little Rock Central High School? A: Governor Orval Faubus was a strong opponent of the integration of Little Rock Central High School.
  • Q: What was the response of President Dwight D. Eisenhower to the situation in Little Rock? A: President Dwight D. Eisenhower deployed federal troops to the city to enforce the court's ruling and protect the African American students.