Highlights From The Turbulent 1960s Civil Rights Movement

Meredith’s first day of school doesn’t go well, though

James Meredith may have been legally allowed to enter the University of Mississippi, but he risked his life to do so. It became clear that he could not enter campus by himself so for his first day, he was provided with an escort by the U.S. Marshals.

Source: Too Craft

A riot broke out that evening at the university campus triggered by Meredith’s arrival. Two people died. Nearly 30 U.S. Marshals were shot. More than 160 people were injured. James Meredith only began to attend classes when President John F. Kennedy sent the U.S. Army in to keep the peace on the campus.