Civil Rights Movement
The Watsons go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Curtis is not only a story of the relationships between family members, but it also gives you an view into what life was like during the days of Jim Crow. Prior to reading this book, I knew little of 16th Street Bombings, the Children’s Crusade, and the Freedom Riders. As a time traveler to this era in American History I hope you will understand the sacrifices of the courageous people who fight for equality and justice throughout the world, not only in the past, but today as well. |
Quick Facts
During the Civil Rights movement many events led to changes that allowed people to view African Americans as people with equal rights as white Americans. Before the movement began, African Americans had to drink from separate water fountains, ride in the back of buses, attend segregated schools, and were denied their right to vote because of the color of their skin. |
Your first stop should be this video overview of the American Civil Right Movement.
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People like Martin Luther King Jr. led the way for African- Americans to find a life of equality. They were willing to stand up for what they believed in. The 1963 March on Washington was a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. Check out this timeline as the next stop on your journey.
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Click on the Glogster logo to explore a full size interactive poster about the Freedom Riders
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The Freedom Riders risked many dangers in their quest for equality for all Americans. Find out more of these brave activists and their journey at the link below. |
Living under Jim Crow laws made many
African Americans second class citizens of the United States. Stop at this Website to see what life was like under Jim Crow. |
Songs of the Civil Rights Movement can be heard at the Nation Public Radio Web Site. Listen to Nina Simone sing
"I Wish I Knew (How It Would Feel to Be Free)" by playing the audio below.
"I Wish I Knew (How It Would Feel to Be Free)" by playing the audio below.
The March on Washington took place on August 28, 1963. Over 250,000 people marched to promote civil rights.
Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his famous “I have a Dream” speech during the event. |
The Civil Rights Act was signed by President Lyndon Johnson on July 2, 1964. The Civil Rights Act bans discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin.
As you arrive back in 2012, you may want to read more about the American Civil Rights Movement. Check out the “Civil Rights” bibliography link below or under the DESTINY resource lists tab for some great reads on this topic.