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What challenges were encountered by the civil rights protestors who participated in the Freedom Rides in the United States of America (USA) in the 1960s? Study Sources 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D and answer the questions that follow - NSC History - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 3
What challenges were encountered by the civil rights protestors who participated in the Freedom Rides in the United States of America (USA) in the 1960s? Study Sour... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What challenges were encountered by the civil rights protestors who participated in the Freedom Rides in the United States of America (USA) in the 1960s? Study Sources 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D and answer the questions that follow - NSC History - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
3.1.1 How, according to the source, did the Freedom Riders set out to challenge racial discrimination in the USA in 1961?
Answer
The Freedom Riders aimed to challenge racial discrimination by directly boarding buses as both Black and white individuals, breaking the segregation laws that existed at the time. Their actions were meant to highlight the unfair restrictions placed upon African Americans and demonstrate that they were citizens deserving of equal rights.
Step 2
3.1.2 Define the term constitution in your own words.
Answer
The constitution is a foundational legal document that outlines the basic principles and framework of governance for a country. It establishes the rules and rights that govern the society and serves as a guide for laws and decision-making.
Step 3
3.1.3 Comment on what is meant by the statement, ‘They also knew that they might be injured or even killed for trying to exercise that right [of travelling together]’.
Answer
This statement reflects the high risks that the Freedom Riders were willing to take in their quest for civil rights. It underscores the danger that they faced from violent opposition, particularly in the racially hostile environments of the Southern States. Despite the threats, their commitment to asserting their rights was a testament to their bravery and determination.
Step 4
3.1.4 Using the information in the source and your own knowledge, explain why President John F Kennedy took immediate action in desegregating the USA.
Answer
President John F Kennedy was spurred to action due to the intense media coverage and public attention that the Freedom Rides garnered. The violent responses from segregationists presented a moral dilemma for the federal government, pushing Kennedy to take a stand for civil rights. He understood that federal intervention was necessary to protect the demonstrators and further the cause of desegregation.
Step 5
3.2.1 Explain why you think this newspaper article made front-page headline news.
Answer
The article likely made front-page news due to the shocking nature of the events surrounding the Freedom Riders. Documentation of violence against peaceful protestors would have captured public interest and outrage, making it a significant story to report on.
Step 6
3.2.2 Why do you think this article was titled, ‘Inhuman!’?
Answer
The title 'Inhuman!' suggests a strong condemnation of the brutality faced by the Freedom Riders. It reflects the public sentiment against the extreme actions of those who opposed desegregation and emphasizes the moral outrage evoked by the violence.
Step 7
3.2.3 Comment on why the flames and smoke from the burning bus are labelled, ‘The Flames of Hatred!’.
Answer
The phrase ‘The Flames of Hatred!’ metaphorically conveys the deep-seated animosity and violence that characterized the racial tensions in America at the time. It illustrates how the destruction of the bus is representative of the broader societal issues of hatred and racism that were prevalent.
Step 8
3.3.1 What, according to the source, motivated Zwerg and his colleagues to get involved in the Freedom Rides?
Answer
Zwerg and his colleagues were motivated by a strong commitment to civil rights and the need to confront segregation head-on. They believed in the importance of taking a stand against injustice and the necessity of facilitating change through direct action.
Step 9
Step 10
3.3.3 Why would a historian consider this source valuable when researching the 1961 Freedom Rides in the USA?
Answer
A historian would find this source valuable as it offers firsthand accounts and insights into the motivations and experiences of those involved in the Freedom Rides. It serves as a primary source of documentary evidence, illuminating the challenges faced by civil rights activists during this crucial period.