Summarize the key events of the Houston Riot, especially what sparked it.
https://tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/jch04
I think that Houston segregating the black officers that worked for the Twenty-fourth United States Infantry sparked the riot. Am I right?
No.
Read the above link and this one.
https://blackpast.org/aaw/houston-mutiny-1917
The Houston Riot, also known as the Camp Logan Riot, took place on August 23, 1917, during World War I. It was one of the deadliest riots in American history. The key events and factors that sparked the riot are as follows:
1. Segregated African American Unit: The 3rd Battalion of the 24th United States Infantry Regiment, an entirely African American unit, was stationed at Camp Logan in Houston, Texas. The regiment was tasked with guarding the construction of a military camp and local infrastructure projects.
2. Racial Tensions: At the time, racial discrimination and segregation were deeply ingrained in American society. African American soldiers were often treated unfairly, faced racial slurs, and were denied basic civil rights.
3. Police Brutality: On August 23, 1917, an altercation occurred between an African American soldier and Houston police officer Lee Sparks. Sparks arrested the soldier near a Houston streetcar for his alleged interference. Many African American soldiers from Camp Logan witnessed the arrest.
4. Soldiers' Anger Ignites: Word of the arrest and alleged police brutality spread rapidly among the soldiers. Anger grew, and around 100 soldiers armed themselves and marched towards downtown Houston, seeking revenge against police officers.
5. Rioting and Violence: As the soldiers progressed, they engaged in violent encounters with the police and neighboring citizens. They shot and killed several white residents, including police officers, and set fire to numerous buildings.
6. Intervention and Suppression: The Texas National Guard, local police forces, and even regular army units were called in to halt the violence. They managed to suppress the riot after several hours of intense fighting and apprehended the rebellious soldiers.
7. Aftermath: The riot resulted in the deaths of several soldiers, police officers, and civilians. A total of 19 soldiers were court-martialed and executed, while several others received long prison sentences. This event further escalated racial tensions in the United States.
To find more detailed information about the Houston Riot, you can refer to books, articles, and online resources that cover the historical context and events surrounding the incident.