Introducing “Turning Points in U.S. History Civil Rights Movement,” a captivating book for kids read by Calvin Thomas on the It’s Reading Time channel. In this book, written by Veronica Wilkins, children will learn about significant events and figures in the Civil Rights Movement. From the Little Rock Nine and their struggle for desegregation to Rosa Parks and her courageous act of defiance, this book explores the fight for equal rights and the challenges faced by African Americans in the 1950s and 1960s. Through engaging storytelling, young readers will gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the civil rights movement and the ongoing fight for equality. Don’t miss out on this educational and inspiring read that encourages children to learn through storytelling.

In chapter one, readers will delve into the story of the Little Rock Nine and the obstacles they faced in attending a previously all-white school in Little Rock, Arkansas. The book also covers pivotal moments in the civil rights movement, such as Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her bus seat and the subsequent Montgomery Bus Boycott. Discover the important role played by activists like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and various organizations like the Black Panther Party. Children will be inspired to think about their own role in fighting for equality as they learn about the struggles faced by black Americans throughout history. Join us on this journey of learning and reflection.

Chapter One: Little Rock Nine

Introduction to the Little Rock Nine

In September 1957, nine black students enrolled at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. Prior to their enrollment, the school was exclusively attended by white students. This marked a significant moment in the civil rights movement, as it challenged the racial segregation prevalent in American schools at the time. The enrollment of the Little Rock Nine was met with hostility and harassment from the white students and community.

White harassment of black students

The Little Rock Nine faced immense hostility from white students and the community. They endured verbal and physical abuse, with racial slurs being directed at them on a daily basis. The white students would spit at them, push them, and often blocked their way into the school. This hostile environment created an extremely challenging and stressful experience for the black students, who were simply seeking an equal education.

Involvement of Arkansas governor

Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus played a significant role in the Little Rock Nine crisis. He vehemently opposed school integration and used his political power to prevent the black students from entering Central High School. He deployed the Arkansas National Guard to surround the school and prevent the Little Rock Nine from attending classes. This action further intensified the racial tensions in Little Rock.

President Eisenhower’s response

President Dwight D. Eisenhower responded to the crisis by deploying federal troops to protect the Little Rock Nine and ensure their safe entry into Central High School. He federalized the Arkansas National Guard and personally ordered the troops to escort the black students to school. This intervention by the President demonstrated the federal government’s commitment to upholding the Supreme Court’s ruling on desegregation and protecting the rights of African American students.

Chapter Two: Many Protests

Supreme Court ruling on segregation

In 1954, the Supreme Court ruled in the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. This ruling declared the “separate but equal” doctrine established by the previous case of Plessy v. Ferguson as unconstitutional, paving the way for the desegregation of schools across the United States.

Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott

In December 1955, Rosa Parks, an African American woman, refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her act of defiance sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a mass protest in which African Americans refused to ride the city buses for over a year. This boycott was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement and led to the eventual desegregation of public transportation in Montgomery.

Lunch counter sit-ins

During the 1960s, activists organized sit-ins at segregated lunch counters in Greensboro, North Carolina, and other southern cities. These sit-ins involved African American protesters peacefully occupying the seats reserved for white customers, demanding equal treatment. The sit-in movement spread throughout the country, leading to the integration of lunch counters and challenging the social norms of segregation.

Formation of the Black Panther Party

The Black Panther Party was founded in 1966 by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale. The party aimed to protect and empower African American communities by monitoring police activities and providing community services such as free breakfast programs. The Black Panthers advocated for black self-defense and championed social justice for African Americans. Their activism brought attention to the mistreatment of black people and highlighted the need for change.

Leadership of Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were prominent leaders in the civil rights movement who advocated for racial equality and justice. Malcolm X emphasized black self-determination and self-defense against violence. He believed in empowering the black community by promoting black pride and challenging white supremacy. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on the other hand, believed in nonviolent protest and sought integration and equality through peaceful means. Both leaders contributed significantly to the civil rights movement, inspiring many individuals to fight for their rights.

March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom

On August 28, 1963, the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom took place in Washington, D.C. Approximately 250,000 individuals, including civil rights activists, religious leaders, and citizens from all walks of life, gathered to demand equal rights and an end to racial discrimination. The highlight of the march was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, which called for an end to racial segregation and the realization of equality for all Americans.

Chapter Three: Laws Change

Alabama marches for voting rights

In the face of voter suppression and discrimination against African Americans in Alabama, civil rights activists organized a series of marches aimed at securing voting rights for all citizens. These marches, notably the Selma to Montgomery marches, drew attention to the obstacles faced by African Americans seeking to exercise their right to vote. The bravery and determination of the marchers inspired a national conversation about the importance of voting rights and led to significant changes in legislation.

Lyndon B. Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act

In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law, a landmark piece of legislation that aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting. The act prohibited discriminatory practices such as literacy tests and provided federal oversight of elections in states with a history of voter suppression. This legislation significantly increased voting accessibility for African Americans and was a crucial step toward ensuring equal voting rights for all citizens.

End of segregation and increased voting accessibility

As a result of the civil rights movement and the efforts of activists, segregation came to an end in various settings, including schools, transportation, and public spaces. These changes were accompanied by increased voting accessibility for African Americans, as discriminatory practices were dismantled and federal legislation protected their right to vote. These milestones marked significant progress in the fight for equality and equal rights.

Ongoing fight for equality

While significant progress has been made in the fight for civil rights and equality, the struggle continues. Systemic racism and discrimination persist in many aspects of society, and activists continue to fight for meaningful change. The legacy of the civil rights movement serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder of the ongoing need to advocate for justice and equality for all individuals.

In conclusion, the civil rights movement in the United States was a pivotal moment in history, marked by the bravery and determination of countless individuals who fought for equality and an end to racial discrimination. From the Little Rock Nine to the March on Washington, each chapter of the movement brought about significant changes and raised awareness about the continued struggles faced by African Americans. While progress has been made, the fight for equality and justice remains ongoing, inspiring individuals to take action and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society.