JFK and Civil Rights

1. JFK and Civil Rights Lesson Starter:

2. Today we will be: • Examining the influence JFK had on the Civil Rights Act of 1964. • Describing MLK’s growing presence in the North.

3. Kennedy’s Promise • Protests in the early 1960s put pressure on JFK to take action. • He promised to end segregation and provide greater protection for Black American voters.

4. Washington March • Civil rights leaders decided the time was right to organise a march in Washington. • Some politicians were afraid there would be violence but JFK saw it as an opportunity to gain support from Black Americans.

5. On August 28, 1963, 250,000 men, women and children gathered beside the Lincoln Memorial to hear MLK deliver his “I have a dream” speech. • The march succeeded in gaining huge publicity.

6. Retaliation • In Birmingham, Alabama members of the KKK threw dynamite into the 16th Street Church. • 4 young Black girls were killed.

7. Results • Many Black Americans were turned against MLK’s stance of non-violent action. • MLK argued the only way to get real change was to get rid of racist politicians – Black people should use their vote! • To do this fair voting processes would have to be introduced.

8. Assassination • Kennedy appeared to be in full support of the Civil Rights movement. • In November 1963 he was shot.

9. Civil Rights Act, 1964 • The new president, Lyndon Johnson, ensured the Civil Rights Act became law. • The act: • Banned discrimination in all public places. • Promised equal working rights.

10. Success? • Politicians: Law went as far as it could. • Black Americans: More had to be done especially regarding housing, and free voting guarantees. • Overall: A step in the right direction.