The Little Rock Crisis of 1958

The Background of the Little Rock Crisis

The Little Rock Crisis of 1958 was a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement, igniting a fierce national debate over racial segregation in schools. Following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision in 1954, which ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, the Little Rock School District was required to integrate its schools. This directive faced significant resistance, particularly at Central High School, an all-white school in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The Little Rock Nine

In response to the court's ruling, nine African American students, now famously known as the Little Rock Nine, were selected to attend Central High School. Despite their courage and determination, they met fierce opposition. On September 4, 1957, the first day of school, they were blocked from entering the school by the Arkansas National Guard, ordered by Governor Orval Faubus to keep the peace and prevent integration.

The Role of the Federal Government

As tensions escalated, President Dwight D. Eisenhower intervened. Although initially hesitant, he ultimately deployed the 101st Airborne Division to Little Rock on September 24, 1957, escorting the students into the school. This federal intervention highlighted the government's stance on civil rights and the importance of enforcing the Supreme Court's rulings.

Major Events of the Little Rock Crisis

Throughout the school year, the Little Rock Nine faced harassment and violence from their fellow students and community members. Schools were closed in 1958 due to continued unrest, reflecting the deep-seated resistance to integration. The events at Central High School became a focal point for civil rights activists and an emblem of the struggle against educational segregation.