EOTO Reaction Post :

EOTO Reaction Post: Advantages of the Civil Rights Era:

    We discussed the numerous advantages and disadvantages of the Civil Rights Era in our last EOTO semester session. The Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Little Rock Nine's and James Meredith's actions, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were some of the significant beneficial movements that were mentioned. These turning points significantly impacted American society, helping some while creating difficulties for others.

    First, a crucial turning point in the civil rights movement was the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Rosa Parks' arrest for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama, set off the 381-day boycott, which started on December 5, 1955. In response, African Americans protested segregation by organizing a citywide bus boycott under the leadership of individuals such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The movement successfully fought discriminatory bus strategies and showed the Black community's economic strength. In the end, it resulted in a historic civil rights win when the Supreme Court declared segregation on public buses to be unconstitutional.

    James Meredith in the Little Rock Nine follows, both of whom were crucial in the battle against school segregation. The Little Rock Nine, a group of nine African-American students, enrolled at Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas in September 1957, following the Supreme Court Brown v. Board of Education decision, which declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional. The students persisted despite violent opposition and animosity from the Arkansas National Guard in segregationist, and federal assistance made sure they eventually attended.

  

 In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed legislation to lift the legal restrictions that prevented African Americans, especially those in southern states, from exercising their right to vote. Widespread demonstrations, like the marches from Selma to Montgomery, led to laws that prohibited discriminatory practices like literacy tests and established federal monitoring of voter registration in places with a history of repression. By significantly raising African-American voter registration and turnout, this law advanced equality and democratic engagement. It has been frequently reauthorized to uphold its fundamental regulations, marking a significant turning point in the civil rights movement.

Reconstruction Video

Reconstruction Vid Notes: 

• In South Carolina, a 21-year-old man carried out a mass shooting in a Black church, killing many innocent people, highlighting the ongoing impact of Reconstruction’s collapse.

  
  
  

• During Reconstruction, Black men served in the U.S. Senate, showing progress in racial equality.

• 180,000 formerly enslaved Black men joined the Army, playing a crucial role in ending slavery and ensuring Union victory in the Civil War.

• Reconstruction was an effort to unify American society after slavery and define what it meant to be a citizen.

• The North and South disagreed on Reconstruction, with the South resisting the changes even after
  losing the war.

• President Abraham Lincoln advocated for voting rights for some Black men, but John Wilkes Booth assassinated him after this speech.

• Andrew Johnson became president after Lincoln's assassination; as a Southern Democrat, he sympathized with plantation owners and was unsupportive of Black rights.

  

• To put an end to slavery and guarantee the Union's victory in the Civil War, 180,000 Black males who had previously been enslaved enlisted in the Army. 

• After slavery, the goal of reconstruction was to define citizenship and bring American society together.

• Despite having few resources, the Freedmen's Bureau helped former slaves by allocating land.

• The "Black Codes," which were imposed by Andrew Johnson's Mississippi government in 1865, compelled Black adults to sign yearly labor contracts or face fines and forced labor.

• White people were able to use Black youngsters as laborers under the pretense of training them because of the Black Codes.

• Established in Tennessee in 1866, the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) aimed to stop Black people from advancing economically and socially and imposed racial injustice.

• To defend Black rights, the Republican Congress passed the Civil Rights Act of 1866, overthrowing Johnson.

• 
  During Reconstruction, there were violent incidents like the Memphis Massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 48 people, 46 of them were Black. The destruction of Black schools, and the burning of homes.

EOTO: Reconstruction Reaction

EOTO Reconstruction Reaction

I was able to gain more knowledge about the Reconstruction era by listening to the EOTO groups.
Through addressing subjects like Forty Acres and a Mule, the Freedmen's Bureau, and the Reconstruction Amendments, the first group informed the class on the advantages of the Reconstruction era. The other, however, concentrated on downsides including the Klan, the Black Codes, and the general lack of success in the Reconstruction.

Kaitlyn talked about the idea behind Forty Acres and a Mule was a pledge to redistribute land to Black families who had been freed; some of these families were even given army mules, hence.  Following the Civil War, General Sherman issued an order allowing roughly 40,000 freedmen to live on land that had been stolen from wealthy Confederates.

Alyson talked about the Freedmen's Bureau, which was founded in 1865 and gave millions of former slaves food, shelter, medical care, education, and legal support. It established offices in 15 states' largest cities and assisted in the founding of Howard University and other historically Black universities.

On the other side, Justin gave a presentation about the Ku Klux Klan. Originally established as a social organization in Pulaski, Tennessee, in 1865, the Klan sought to restore the pre-Reconstruction social order by attacking symbols of Black freedom. Not only poor Southern whites but also powerful people were among the group's members. The Klan temporarily declined as a result of the actions taken by Ulysses S. Grant, who became president

In conclusion, the Reconstruction Era was a time to build America. Change can come with good and bad aspects.

Mock trial Reaction: Brown v. Board of Ed

Brown v. Board of Education:

From Brown's side, it’s argued that everyone is created equal by God, and separating children based on their race stops them from reaching their full potential. The “separate but equal” rule doesn’t create equality it just separates. Trying to unite the country while teaching kids they are different doesn't make sense. Why shouldn't African Americans be treated equally in society after demonstrating their equality in the military by occupying significant positions? All children may have equal access to education through school integration, which would increase resources and foster togetherness. Instead of funding individual schools, the money may be used to enhance the educational system as a whole. Better education would result in higher-paying jobs for African Americans thanks to integrated schools. Additionally, white students would gain from the opportunity to network with more people, which would boost their financial situation. Since African American schools are not truly equal, the "separate but equal" principle is in violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the 14th Amendment, which guarantees equal treatment under the law to all individuals. African Americans must be afforded the same opportunities as white students, and the struggle for equality will persist until this is achieved.

White people are equally impacted by the "separate but equal" norm, according to the Board of Education. African Americans should pay taxes like white people do if they want better schools. Black communities have demonstrated their ability to create thriving economies, as demonstrated by the success of Oklahoma's Black Wall Street. Violence broke out after a Black man allegedly attacked a white woman, which resulted in the demolition of Black Wall Street. Such animosity might increase if races were blended. Some contend that even though African Americans currently enjoy rights and opportunities, they continue to want more rather than make use of what they already have. The idea that racial segregation is a part of God's design is supported by the Bible. Past court cases, like the Topeka case, showed that “separate but equal” doesn’t break the law. The issue isn’t with the doctrine itself, but how it’s carried out, and that should be up to the local government. Keeping the “separate but equal” rule is the right thing to do legally.

The judge wraps up by saying that the country is moving toward desegregation, and African Americans are slowly gaining equal rights. Many outdated customs, not just in schools but also in transportation, entertainment, and the military, are being left behind. How can we expect African Americans to risk their lives for the country and still treat them as second-class citizens? It’s also more efficient to fund one good school system instead of two. In integrated communities, crime rates are lower, people make more money, and living is more affordable for both Black and white people. If both separate school systems were equal, then the “separate but equal” rule could work, but that’s not the case. The state of Kansas disagrees with the claim that their schools are

unequal, arguing that Black communities can’t pay enough taxes for better facilities

Nonetheless, it has been demonstrated that Black communities are not required to remain in low-income circumstances. The Tulsa race riot occurred due to the achievements of Black individuals, and integration might result in even greater success. Change should occur gradually, and the judge is questioned about his intention to disturb God’s order. All previous cases in Kansas were dismissed, and the state triumphed in everyone. This instance is not unlike others. Ultimately, the court concludes that Brown prevails in the case.

In the Heat of the Night Reaction Post:

In the Heat of the Night Reaction Post:

    The 1957 film "The Heat of the Night," that was directed by Norman Jewison, highlighted racism in southern custom during the reconstruction era. The story center is on the relationship between Mississippi sheriff Bill Gillespie and his men and Virgil Tibbs (played by Sidney Poitier), a black detective from Philadelphia. Given that the movie is set during the Civil Rights Movement, it honestly depicts the prejudice that Southern white people held at the time. It emphasizes how open conversation can bridge racial gaps and create mutual understanding and respect.

    Officer Sam Wood stops and arrests Tibbs for the murder of Mr. Colbert, a wealthy white man in town who is establishing a factory, because of his race at the beginning of the movie. We discovered that Tibbs was not just a detective but also the best homicide detective in Philadelphia after he was able to contact his commanding officer at the station. At that point, Gillespie had requested his commanding officer if Tibbs could assist in the search for the murderer after releasing him from detention.

    We watch the development of the two players' connection while the investigation goes on.  Tension penetrates their initial encounter as Gillespie's bias prevents him from accepting Tibbs as a regular person and demonstrates the pervasive racism in the South.  But Tibbs's intelligence and professionalism came through, and Gillespie was able to alter his earlier beliefs.  Tibbs notes that the prejudice of the neighborhood and local law enforcement is preventing them from determining who killed Mr. Colbert while they investigate the incident.

 

   The movie emphasizes this change with significant scenes like the two of them visiting Mr. Endicott's cotton field, the famous phrase "They call me Mister Tibbs," and their encounter in the deserted warehouse.  These scenes captivate the audience and provide memorable examples of the concepts of equality and respect. As their bond deepens, Tibbs and Gillespie begin to put together the crime, and they depart with the sense that everything was handled fairly.

    "In the Heat of the Night", is a murder mystery that also provides insight on  racial issues in the south. The film begins a conversation about how equality and justice are necessary for our country to progress in how, if we don’t respect one another, we might never find a common ground.

Mock Trial : Plessy V. Fergusson

Honorable Judge,

    Thank you for allowing me to address this court. Today, I am here to discuss how the enforcement of Plessy v. Ferguson during the Reconstruction period actively harmed African American norms, traditions, and customs, and how, by contrast, an integrated system like the one developing in New York at that time promotes a more just and equitable society.

    The Plessy v. Ferguson decision in 1896, which established the doctrine of “separate but equal,” essentially legalized racial segregation. This decision, although framed as providing equality, actually ensures that African Americans receive inferior treatment, resources, and opportunities. Suppose this legal precedent is applied during Reconstruction a critical period designed to rebuild and reshape the nation after the Civil War. In that case, it undermines the very progress meant to give African Americans their rightful place in society.
 

   During Reconstruction, African Americans began to form new identities, norms, and traditions that blended African heritage with the newly gained freedom and opportunities of American life. Communities start to develop strong cultural practices in religion, education, and family life. However, African Americans are forced into isolation by the enforcement of segregation through Plessy v. Ferguson, communication between cultures, and cut-off contact with the wider population. Segregated systems prevent African Americans from sharing their traditions and beliefs on an equal basis. Segregation suggests that their traditions are less valuable and must be kept separate, weakening their cultural growth.
We deny African Americans, the same chances and resources as white people by keeping them apart, particularly in major fields like social life and higher education. Segregation restricts their access to high-quality, education, which in turn affects their chances of achieving political and economic success. constraints create a cycle that reinforces the idea that African Americans are somehow inferior, thereby discouraging the development of their norms and customs within the larger American narrative.
Now, compare this to what is happening in New York during this time.

While racism and inequality still exist in the North, cities like New York offer more integrated public systems. African Americans can attend school with white students, they share public transportation, and they have access to jobs and public spaces that would be off-limits in a segregated system through this integration, African Americans can share their skills, beliefs, and customs with the broader community, creating an engaging conversation between cultures that is beneficial to all. As a result, new customs in conventions are established that benefit African-American communities, and the country at large.

African Americans can engage in major, cultural, and economic exchanges with the larger culture and develop a sense of identity, identity, and community through an integrated structure. During this. African Americans in New York were able to create businesses, engage in politics, and influence, public life, and ways that were not possible in the segregated South.

    Their contributions to American culture, music, art, and politics emerge from this integration. It creates a foundation for greater equality and cultural exchange moving forward.
In contrast, segregation under Plessy v. Ferguson reinforces racial hierarchies that limit African American progress. It keeps African Americans confined to the margins of society, denying them access to the same level of opportunity and recognition. This restriction not only harms African Americans but also impoverishes the society that misses out on their full potential.

    In conclusion, while segregation stifles the growth of African American norms, traditions, and customs, integration fosters a society where those cultural contributions can flourish. The Reconstruction period presents an opportunity to build a truly united country, and segregation undermines that opportunity. An integrated system, like the one emerging in New York, supports equality and strengthens African Americans and the nation.

Thank you.

EOTO: African American Impact in WWII:

EOTO: African American Impact in WWII

    African Americans made significant contributions to the Allied war effort during World War II, both on the home front and in combat. Their involvement laid the groundwork for the postwar Civil Rights Movement, highlighting the contradiction of promoting freedom abroad while facing prejudice at home, making this era revolutionary. More than a million African Americans served in the military, breaking significant racial barriers and facing prejudices that had previously restricted their social positions. African Americans were initially assigned to segregated units and support posts in the military, despite the urgent need for personnel. Due to discriminatory rules, many of them were forced into jobs like truck drivers, laborers, and cooks, which limited their ability to participate in war. African Americans proved their talents by persistent campaigning and undeniable skill in leadership and combat.

The Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators, are the most famous example of African American combat excellence. These pilots, who received their training at Tuskegee, Alabama, faced doubt from military authorities, but went on to become one of the most prestigious fighter squadrons in the US. Army Air Corps. They won significant praise for their ability, daring, and low fatality rate after completing numerous successful missions around Europe, often protecting Allied bombers. Their accomplishments proved that African Americans could succeed in even the most challenging and important military roles.

    During the war, African American women were equally important. Numerous women joined the Women's Army Corps (WAC), providing support to soldiers sent abroad as clerks, nurses, and operators. On the home front, others took part, joining the labor in high numbers to fill jobs left empty by men sent to fight. They helped with wartime production by working in shipyards and factories, producing airplanes, vehicles, and weapons that were essential to the war effort. African Americans migrated to northern and western cities as a result of the industrial boom, which had significant effects on society and the economy. Numerous cities' demographics were altered by this migration, which also strengthened racial equality demands by bringing Black neighborhoods closer to important businesses and labor unions.

    The "Double V" campaign had an important part in African American participation in World War II. This campaign promoted a "double victory", a victory over racism at home and a victory over fascism overseas, and was spearheaded by African American newspapers such as the Pittsburgh Courier. The contradiction that Black soldiers were asked to protect democratic freedoms overseas while being denied those same rights in the US was brought to light by this campaign. As a unifying symbol for Black Americans, the "Double V" campaign encouraged community support for the war and the broader civil rights movement while also promoting solidarity. 

The conflict also had a significant impact on the military services. As African Americans showed their skills and bravery, the military gradually modified its policies. President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981, which required the desegregation of the US Armed Forces, soon after the war ended in 1948. This landmark decision was heavily impacted by the World War II sacrifices and services rendered by African American soldiers, as well as the growing impact of the Civil Rights Movement.

African Americans' service in the military and the workforce during World War II had an enormous impact on American culture. It not only helped the Allies win, but it also debunked long-standing racial biases and laid the groundwork for further changes in society. A turning point in African American history, the conflict highlighted the community's determination to struggle for justice at home and freedom abroad. Their WWII success proved that African Americans were vital to the country's power and success, sparking the equality movement that led to important civil rights gains in the 1950s and 1960s. African Americans' sacrifices and dedication were crucial in redefining American democracy and expanding its broadening to include the concepts of social justice and racial equality.