The Harlem Riot of 1964, also known as the Harlem Rebellion, was a significant event during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. The riot took place in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City during the summer of 1964. The catalyst for the unrest was the fatal shooting of a 15-year-old African American teenager, James Powell, by a white police officer.

Powell had been involved in a dispute with the off-duty officer, and the officer ultimately shot and killed him. The incident sparked outrage and protests in Harlem, with community members expressing frustration over longstanding issues of police brutality, racism, and economic inequality.

The unrest quickly escalated into a full-blown riot, with violence erupting on the streets of Harlem. Buildings were set on fire, stores were looted, and clashes between protesters and police officers resulted in injuries and arrests.

The Harlem Riot of 1964 highlighted the deep-seated frustrations and grievances of African Americans in urban areas across the country. It also drew attention to the need for addressing systemic racism, inequality, and police misconduct. The riot had a lasting impact on the civil rights movement, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality in America.