2 Equals 12

2 Equals 12

Topic: Little Rock Central High School

Little Rock Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, holds great significance in Black history due to the pivotal role it played in the American Civil Rights Movement. In 1957, nine African American students, known as the "Little Rock Nine," attempted to enroll in the all-white school, following the landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.

The Little Rock Nine faced violent opposition from white students, segregationist groups, and even the Arkansas National Guard, who were initially sent to prevent the students from entering the school. The presence of the National Guard was eventually ordered by Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus, who was a staunch segregationist.

Despite facing threats, harassment, and physical violence, the Little Rock Nine persevered and eventually gained entrance to Central High School with the help of federal troops deployed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This event not only highlighted the deep-seated racism and resistance to desegregation in the South but also sparked national outrage and brought attention to the ongoing struggle for civil rights.

The courage and resilience of the Little Rock Nine helped to pave the way for further desegregation efforts in education and served as a significant milestone in the fight against racial discrimination in America. Today, Little Rock Central High School is designated as a National Historic Site and continues to be a symbol of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in the United States.