What developments in American society helped to make the racial revolution of the 1950s and 1960s possible?
As we became more urbanized in the middle 20th century, we also came into closer contact with people of other ethnic backgrounds.
Also, consider these events.
"1943 -- War contractors barred from racial discrimination.
Riots in Harlem, Detroit.
1948 -- President Truman issues executive order outlawing segregation in U.S. military.
1952 -- Racial, ethnic barriers to naturalization removed by Immigration and Naturalization Act."
http://www.cnn.com/EVENTS/1997/mlk/links.html
The racial revolution of the 1950s and 1960s in the United States was a result of various developments in American society. Here are some key factors that contributed to this significant social and political change:
1. Civil Rights Movement: The Civil Rights Movement, led by prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr., aimed to fight racial segregation and discrimination. Activists used nonviolent protests and civil disobedience to demand equal rights for African Americans.
2. Brown v. Board of Education: In 1954, the landmark Supreme Court case, Brown v. Board of Education, declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. This ruling challenged the long-standing concept of "separate but equal" and set the stage for further desegregation efforts.
3. Cold War and International Pressure: During the Cold War era, the United States aimed to be viewed as a model of democracy and freedom. Racial segregation contradicted these ideals and attracted international criticism, pushing the government to address civil rights issues.
4. Media Coverage: The advent of television and the widespread coverage of civil rights protests and racial violence brought the struggle for equality into homes across America. This exposure increased public awareness and led to greater support for the movement.
5. Legislation: The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were significant pieces of legislation that aimed to dismantle racial segregation and protect the voting rights of African Americans. These laws provided strong legal foundations for equal rights.
6. Changing Demographics: The Great Migration, in which millions of African Americans moved from the rural South to cities in the North and West, contributed to a shift in demographics. The increased visibility and concentration of African Americans in urban areas helped foster community organization and political mobilization.
7. Grassroots Activism: Grassroots organizations, like the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and the Congress of Racial Equality, played a crucial role in mobilizing individuals and communities for civil rights actions. Their efforts extended beyond urban centers, making the movement more widespread.
These developments in American society, along with many others, contributed to the racial revolution of the 1950s and 1960s, marking a significant turning point in the fight for racial equality in the United States.