From Selma to Montgomery

Sample Solution

  The march from Selma to Montgomery in 1965 was a watershed moment in the American civil rights movement. It was a victory march for much of the early movement, as it helped to secure the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. However, it also revealed how much more was left to accomplish, as African Americans continued to face discrimination in many areas of life.

Full Answer Section

    The march was led by Martin Luther King Jr., who had been a major figure in the civil rights movement since the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955. King saw the march as an opportunity to bring attention to the continuing struggle for voting rights in the South. He also hoped that the march would inspire a new generation of activists to continue the fight for equality. The march began on March 7, 1965, with a group of about 600 people. They were met by state troopers who blocked their way and used tear gas and billy clubs to disperse them. This event, which became known as "Bloody Sunday," shocked the nation and galvanized support for the civil rights movement. The march resumed on March 9, with thousands of people joining the protest. This time, the marchers were protected by federal troops, and they were able to reach Montgomery on March 25. The march ended with a rally at the state capitol, where King delivered his famous "How Long, Not Long" speech. The march from Selma to Montgomery was a victory for the civil rights movement. It helped to secure the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which outlawed discrimination in voting. However, it also revealed how much more was left to accomplish. African Americans continued to face discrimination in many areas of life, including education, employment, and housing. The march led by Martin Luther King Jr. embraced not only the victories of the 1950s and early 1960s, but also showed promise for the future. King spoke of a "dream" of a day when all people would be treated equally, regardless of their race. He also spoke of the need for continued struggle to achieve that dream. The march from Selma to Montgomery was a turning point in the American civil rights movement. It helped to bring about important changes, but it also showed that there was still much work to be done. The march is a reminder that the fight for equality is never easy, but it is a fight that is worth fighting.