The topic I am choosing to write about is "Little Rock 9." The decision to integrate nine African American boys and girls into an all white school during one of the toughest racial times periods in United States history was both bold and courageous. I feel this is a very important, symbolic topic that should be studied much more in depth in secondary schools throughout America. Before recent research, I had never even heard of this particular occurrence in Little Rock, Arkansas during the Civil Rights Movement. Apparently, it was a huge deal because it marked the first time that black teenagers were being integrated into an all white school. Students were put through treacherous and difficult times while fighting the war against segregation, including the everyday issue of just being able to walk into school. Federal guards had to escort the nine black kids through the Caucasian people's mosh pit just to enter the building. This is a major topic that I feel should be more thoroughly covered throughout the country as a big part of gaining civil rights.
I thought that the video was very touching, because it showed the true courage of the students. All of the protestors were so hateful and ignorant, and it was frustrating to watch. According to the picket signs at 1:33, I am the result of communism. While I have minimally studied the Little Rock 9 in history classes, I don't know the true details of their story. However, I don't believe that they were the very first African American students to be integrated into White schools. I'm pretty sure that their enrollment was publicized because it was a situation of violence and turbulence that required the help of the national guard.
ReplyDeleteI actually learned about Little Rock Nine in high school. I did - and still do - find the story to be very powerful, though I still can't truly imagine the courage it must have taken. This is such a powerful event in history, and you're absolutely correct to argue that every American student should be taught the story of these teens.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting topic! I have never heard of this in high school and I feel this would be a great addition to the curriculum in order for kids to be educated on the idea of segregation and integration. This is a very strong topic. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteElyse, I also did not learn about this topic in high school. Apparently, it was a very big issue that introduced the idea of integrating Black children into all white schools. Not knowing much about Little Rock 9, I feel i will learn a lot by researching the topic in great depth. This seems to be a very powerful story, just as Amelia said.
ReplyDelete