On September 4, 1957, 9 black students, historically known as the Little Rock Nine, were denied entry by armed troops in the Arkansas National Guard, resulting in an altercation. Images of the African American students being screamed at, mocked and spat on became national and international news which meant something had to be done to resolve the issue.
It eventually led to President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Governor Faubus reaching an agreement that the Arkansas National Guard would remain stationed at the school to enable the African American students to attend. However, when the governor returned to Arkansas, he removed the National Guard troops and left the police to deal with the security.
On September 23, 1957, when the Little Rock nine tried to enter the school, they had to use a side entrance to avoid a hostile mob of 1,000 that had formed outside. Unfortunately, a riot erupted that day, and the police were forced to evacuate the African American students for their safety. It was then that the Mayor of Little Rock, Woodrow Mann, requested the president to intervene.
Upon receiving the news, President Dwight D. Eisenhower was not too pleased, and he, being a military man, did not want his orders undermined. He felt that Governor Faubus had been insubordinate. On that same day, Sept 23, the president issued an executive order 10730, which kept the Arkansas National Guard under federal authority. He also sent 1,000 US Army troops from the 101st Airborne Division to the location to ensure the order as the Central High School desegregated.
My heart broke for the Young Lady who was harassed by That White Girl in 1957. When they met on Oprah over 30 Years Later she “apologized” saying that her Family was scared because something would happen to them, etc. You knew The Woman was still very prejudiced and a bigot.
Thanks for another history lesson. I have
always enjoyed reading what took place in
the past.
There is always a new story to be heard.
I enjoy hearing about my own family so
parents, grandparents and old friends keep
your young ones informed about your own
families’ history.
Thanks for reminding us of this historical moment, when President Eisenhower steered this country in the direction of morality and equality.
This is historically correct and necessary for Americans to know and remember.
Ava Duvernay’ s version of President Lyndon Johnson’s actions re the Selma March is a lie or rather her version of events. In these times it is vital that people know the truth not some “version” of the truth to sell a movie.
The truth is ugly but better to be told in hopes that healing can eventually hap
We’ve come a long way, and we still have a long way to go. Racism is imbedded in America. Change starts in the family, teaching kindness, and equality.
I am proud to tell you all my aunt from Haworth Oklahoma joined the FBI RIGHT OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL AND TOOK A BUS TO WASHINGTON D C and was a new recruit back then and was sent to Little Rock to work on this tragedy. She was so proud of President Eisenhower and ashamed of how the kid ere treated. Years later sh had the opportunity to meet three of the kids. She received a letter of commendation from J Edgar Hoover which she kept along with many other special assignments. Never married dedicated her life to the FBI. Was with them 38 years. Thank you for hearing her story too