The Impact of Martin Luther King and of Black
Power
1. How successful were ‘Sit-ins’ and ‘Freedom Rides’ as campaign methods?
To evaluate the effects of the Sit-ins and Freedom Rides on the civil rights movement
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RESOURCES
Greensboro Sit-Ins
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2. Why were the Birmingham and Washington marches so important?
To evaluate the significance of the two marches in raising awareness of Civil Rights issues and in achieving the 1964 Civil Rights Act and 1965 Voting Rights Act.
RESOURCES
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Read the two letters below. The first 'A Call for Unity' written by 8 white clergyman. Then read MLK's response to this letter while he was in jail in Birmingham and then answer the questions below.
- In King’s response he writes, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” What are the implications of this statement for all people in relation to social injustices? Do you believe he is right? Why or why not?
- What are the four basic steps King outlines for a nonviolent campaign? Would you add any additional steps? What are some examples of people using these approaches today?
- How does King define “just” laws and “unjust” laws? Why do you agree or disagree with his reasoning? Are there laws today that you think are unjust? If so, why are they unjust and why do people continue to obey them?
- King writes, “Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute understanding from people of ill will. Lukewarm acceptance is much more bewildering than outright rejection.” What does he mean by this? Do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.
- What definition of “extremist” does King use when he gladly accepts the label?
- If you were one of the clergymen who wrote “A Call to Unity,” how do you think you would view King’s letter? Why?
A Call for Unity from RCB78 |
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3. Why was the Civil Rights and Voting Acts so important?
To evaluate the significance of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Act and to review the role that President Kennedy played in the movement?
RESOURCES
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4. What was the significance of MLK’s assassination?
To explain the significance of MLK's death to the Civil Rights Movement
RESOURCES
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5. What role did Malcolm X play in the Civil Rights Movement?
To examine the impact of Malcolm X on the Civil Rights Movement and to compare and contrast the views of Malcolm X with Martin Luther King
ACTIVITY
Compare and contrast the ideas and beliefs of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X in relation to the Civil Rights Movement. Watch the documentary debate and use the websites below to help you with this task. Sources
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6. How significant was the Black Power Movement?
To identify and explain the significance of the Black Power Movement and the impact of the Black Panther Movement
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