The Watts Rebellion, also known as the Watts Riots, was a significant event in Black history that took place in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, in August 1965. The uprising was sparked by longstanding issues of racial inequality, police brutality, and economic disparities faced by the predominantly Black residents of Watts.

The rebellion began on August 11, 1965, after a confrontation between a Black motorist, Marquette Frye, and the Los Angeles Police Department. The arrest and subsequent violence that erupted in the neighborhood led to six days of unrest, resulting in extensive property damage, injuries, and deaths. The National Guard was called in to restore order, and more than 14,000 law enforcement personnel were deployed to quell the rebellion.

The Watts Rebellion was a watershed moment in the civil rights movement, drawing attention to the systemic racism and oppression faced by Black communities across the United States. It highlighted the need for social and economic reforms to address racial injustice and inequality. The uprising also led to the formation of the McCone Commission, which investigated the root causes of the rebellion and made recommendations for change.

Ultimately, the Watts Rebellion served as a catalyst for broader discussions about race relations, police reform, and economic empowerment in Black communities. It remains a significant chapter in Black history, underscoring the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality in America.