The integration of Little Rock High School was one of many conflicts faced during the civil rights movements of the 1950’s and 1960’s. The Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education overturned the “Separate but Equal” doctrine created by the Court in Plessy v. Ferguson, and required the integration of schools across the United States. In the following video, you will see the reaction to that ruling during the integration of Little Rock High School. Please view and take notes on Fighting Back 1957–1962: Eyes on the Prize—America’s Civil Rights Movement 1954–1985 and read the Civil Rights Chapter in your textbook. The first half hour will be enough to complete the discussion.
*Warning, this video contains offensive racist language.
Then respond to the following two questions:
Address the Constitutional questions presented by this conflict. Why were the states in defiance of the federal law? What provision in the Constitution addresses State and Federal conflict? Which branch of government is responsible for enforcing federal law? How was that accomplished?
What does this video reveal to you about those involved in the personal and governmental struggles during the Civil Rights movement of the 1950’s? How did Brown v. Board of Education advance the the guarantees of the 14th Amendment? Lastly, what role if any do you think media/television played in the Civil Rights Movement.
Once you have posted your response, the other students’ responses will appear. Please read over the other students’ response and then reply to at least two classmates. In your replies identify something you had not previously been aware of or something which challenges you to think differently.
Your response must be at least 300 words. List all web resources and referenced materials that were used. You must use the APA citation style format in listing references used and in parenthetical citations.
