OBJECTIVE – This lesson will provide an overview of various specific aspects of the Civil Rights Movement.

DISCUSSION – The era directly following World War II was a tense time in world affairs.  The United States was gripped by the Cold War and fear of Communism occupied the minds of many Americans.  The Soviet Union was a very real enemy and conflict in Southeast Asia and Central American caused very real concern for the United States .  While many Americans disagreed with the treatment of minorities in some parts of the country, their minds were engaged by other issues facing the country.  War in Korea .  War in Vietnam .  Soviet takeovers in Southern and Eastern Europe .  Nuclear arms race.  Sputnik!

The Civil Rights Movement changed all that.  More and more Americans, of all ethnic backgrounds, began to take notice of the civil rights violations of many of their fellow countrymen.  From its humble beginning, to larger more ambitious goals, the Civil Rights Movement mobilized the hearts and minds of Americans from coast to coast.

Assignment 8.01

ASSIGNMENT – Download and read the document “NotesCivilRightsOnline”.  At the end of each section is a “Discussion Question” (14 total).  In a Word document, answer all the Discussion Questions in at least 1 well written paragraph.  Go to the Assignment Area, click on “Assignment 8.01 – Civil Rights Movement Notes” and submit your completed Word document with Discussion Questions.