5-2 Short Paper HIS 319
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School
Southern New Hampshire University *
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Course
319
Subject
History
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by CountResolve12709
Hannah Pawlewski
5-2 Short Paper
HIS-319
The modern civil rights movement is a pivotal era in American history that brought about
significant changes in racial equality and social justice. This movement, which emerged in the
mid-20th century, was characterized by the efforts of individuals, organizations, and
communities to challenge racial discrimination and segregation. It was a time of immense
struggle, but also one of great triumphs and achievements. In this essay, we will explore the
origins of the modern civil rights movement, the key figures and organizations that played a
crucial role in its success, and the major events and achievements that shaped this transformative
period in American history.
The modern civil rights movement can trace its origins to several key factors that
contributed to changing racial attitudes in America. Firstly, the impact of World War II played a
significant role in challenging racial prejudices. African Americans who served in the war
returned home with a newfound sense of dignity and a desire for equal rights. Their experiences
abroad, fighting alongside white soldiers, exposed the hypocrisy of segregation and fueled the
demand for change. Additionally, the landmark Supreme Court case, Brown v. Board of
Education, marked a turning point in the fight against racial segregation in schools. The court's
ruling in 1954, which declared that separate educational facilities were inherently unequal, laid
the foundation for dismantling segregation in all aspects of American society. This decision not
only provided legal justification for challenging segregation but also inspired activists to act. One
of the most iconic events that sparked the modern civil rights movement was the Montgomery
Bus Boycott in 1955. Rosa Parks, a courageous African American woman, refused to give up her
seat on a bus to a white passenger, leading to her arrest. This act of defiance ignited a year-long
boycott of the city's bus system by African Americans, demanding an end to segregated seating.
The success of the boycott, which ultimately led to the desegregation of buses in Montgomery,
demonstrated the power of collective action and set the stage for further civil rights activism.
The modern civil rights movement was driven by the tireless efforts of numerous
individuals and organizations who dedicated their lives to the cause of racial equality. One of the
most prominent figures was Martin Luther King Jr., who emerged as a charismatic leader and the
face of the movement. King's leadership in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference
(SCLC) emphasized nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience as powerful tools for effecting
change. His inspiring speeches, such as the famous "I Have a Dream" speech, resonated with
millions and galvanized support for the movement. Another influential organization in the
modern civil rights movement was the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).
Composed primarily of young activists, the SNCC played a crucial role in organizing grassroots
campaigns and mobilizing African American communities. Their commitment to nonviolent
direct action, such as sit-ins and freedom rides, challenged segregation and brought attention to
the injustices faced by African Americans. The National Association for the Advancement of
Colored People (NAACP) also played a significant role in the modern civil rights movement.
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