Photo AI
Explain why there was opposition to the civil rights movement in the years 1954–60 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
Explain why there was opposition to the civil rights movement in the years 1954–60. You may use the following in your answer: Ku Klux Klan 'Dixiecrats' You mu... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why there was opposition to the civil rights movement in the years 1954–60 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Ku Klux Klan
Answer
The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) was a significant source of opposition to the civil rights movement in the years 1954-60. This organization was committed to the violent resistance against the civil rights efforts aimed at achieving racial equality. The KKK engaged in acts of intimidation and violence, including lynchings and bombings, targeting civil rights activists and African American communities.
The Klan's notoriety meant that many individuals feared repercussions for supporting the civil rights movement, which contributed to a chilling effect on advocacy and mobilization.
Step 2
'Dixiecrats'
Answer
The 'Dixiecrats' were a faction of the Democratic Party that emerged in the late 1940s, opposing civil rights initiatives. They were primarily composed of Southern Democrats who supported racial segregation and sought to maintain white supremacy in the South.
Their influence in Congress allowed them to block civil rights legislation, effectively stalling progress towards racial equality during this period. They framed civil rights as a threat to Southern way of life, which galvanized many white voters against the movement.
Step 3
Further Opposition
Answer
In addition to the KKK and Dixiecrats, other forms of opposition included local law enforcement and state governments, which often sided with segregationists. Many authorities viewed the civil rights movement as a threat to public order. They frequently failed to protect civil rights activists and instead enforced laws that suppressed protests and demonstrations. This environment of hostility was compounded by misinformation in the media, which often portrayed civil rights activists in a negative light, discouraging broader public support.