Topic: University of Mississippi
The University of Mississippi, located in Oxford, MS, has a complex history with regard to Black students and faculty. The university was founded in 1848 and did not officially integrate until 1962, when James Meredith became the first African American student admitted to the university after a long and tumultuous legal battle and federal intervention.
Meredith's enrollment sparked violent protests and riots on campus, with the National Guard eventually being called in to ensure his safety. Despite facing significant adversity and hostility, Meredith went on to graduate from the University of Mississippi in 1963.
In the years following integration, the university continued to grapple with issues of racism and discrimination. In recent decades, the University of Mississippi has taken steps to address its troubled history and work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse campus community. Today, the university has a more diverse student body and has implemented various initiatives to promote diversity and equity.
Overall, the University of Mississippi's history in Black history is marked by significant challenges and struggles, but also by progress and efforts towards positive change.