James Meredith |
Who was he?
James Meredith was born in Mississippi but moved to Florida as a child before serving in the United States Air Force. after serving, he went on to receive a formal education. During this time, schools had first become desegregated in the united states. With that in mind, Meredith applied to The University of Mississippi. The school unwillingly accepted him as the first colored student to be allowed into the University of Mississippi (History).
Why was he famous?
As a result of the University of Mississippi accepting an African American into their school, many riots spurred in protest. he was blocked from entering the school for registry by order of Mississippi's own Governor. James Meredith had to be put under protection of U.S. Marshals while he attended classes but was the first colored individual to ever graduate from University of Mississippi. after graduation, Meredith's involvement in the civil rights movement increased for he was seen as a hero in his accomplishment (History).
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Other important events.
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