U.S. Civil Rights Movement
This quiz assesses student knowledge of important people, places, and events that took place during the civil rights movement.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What group of students was famous for challenging school segregation in the South?
- A.
The "Little Rock Nine"
- B.
The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)
- C.
The Freedom Riders
Correct Answer
A. The "Little Rock Nine"Explanation
The "Little Rock Nine" refers to a group of nine African American students who played a significant role in challenging school segregation in the South. In 1957, they enrolled in Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas, which had previously been an all-white school. Their attendance was met with hostility and resistance from white students and the community. The "Little Rock Nine" faced numerous obstacles and threats to their safety but their bravery and determination brought national attention to the injustice of segregation and helped pave the way for desegregation in schools.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Who is the person responsible for starting the Montgomery bus boycott?
- A.
Martin Luther King Jr.
- B.
Thurgood Marshall
- C.
Rosa Parks
Correct Answer
C. Rosa ParksExplanation
Rosa Parks is the correct answer because she is widely recognized as the person who sparked the Montgomery bus boycott. On December 1, 1955, Parks refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her act of defiance led to her arrest and became a catalyst for the civil rights movement. The Montgomery bus boycott, which lasted for over a year, was a significant event in the fight against racial segregation and discrimination. Martin Luther King Jr. played a crucial role in the boycott as a leader and spokesperson, but it was Rosa Parks who initiated the protest.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What was the name of the lawyer who won the Supreme Court case, Brown v. Board of Education, and made segregation in public schools illegal?
- A.
George Wallace
- B.
Linda Brown
- C.
Thurgood Marshall
Correct Answer
C. Thurgood MarshallExplanation
Thurgood Marshall is the correct answer because he was the lawyer who successfully argued the case of Brown v. Board of Education before the Supreme Court. His argument led to the landmark decision that declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional, overturning the "separate but equal" doctrine established in Plessy v. Ferguson. Marshall later became the first African American Supreme Court Justice, serving from 1967 to 1991.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Who were the "Freedom Riders?"
- A.
Students who rode on buses throughout the South to show that segregation wasn't legal anymore.
- B.
A name for civil rights marchers.
- C.
African Americans who marched in the Birmingham Children's Crusade.
Correct Answer
A. Students who rode on buses throughout the South to show that segregation wasn't legal anymore.Explanation
The "Freedom Riders" were students who rode on buses throughout the South to show that segregation wasn't legal anymore. They were part of a civil rights movement in the 1960s and aimed to challenge the segregation laws that still existed in many Southern states. By riding on integrated buses and challenging the segregation policies, they brought attention to the injustice and inequality faced by African Americans. Their actions played a significant role in raising awareness and bringing about change in the civil rights movement.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In what city was Martin Luther King Jr. assassinated?
- A.
Montgomery, AL
- B.
Memphis, TN
- C.
Washington D.C.
Correct Answer
B. Memphis, TNExplanation
Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, TN. This city holds historical significance as it was the location where King was shot on April 4, 1968, while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel. His assassination was a tragic event that had a profound impact on the civil rights movement and the United States as a whole.Rate this question:
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- 6.
In what city was Martin Luther King Jr. born?
- A.
Birmingham
- B.
Memphis
- C.
Atlanta
Correct Answer
C. AtlantaExplanation
Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta. This is a well-known fact and is widely documented. Atlanta is also the city where King spent a significant portion of his life and where he became a prominent leader in the civil rights movement. His birthplace in Atlanta, known as the King Birth Home, is now a National Historic Site and serves as a tribute to his legacy.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What famous prize was Martin Luther King Jr. honored with?
- A.
Olympic Gold Medal
- B.
The Pulitzer Prize
- C.
The Nobel Peace Prize
Correct Answer
C. The Nobel Peace PrizeExplanation
Martin Luther King Jr. was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. This prestigious award is given to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting peace and resolving conflicts. King's tireless efforts in advocating for civil rights and racial equality in the United States made him a prominent figure in the fight against discrimination and injustice. His nonviolent approach and powerful speeches inspired millions and brought attention to the need for social change. The Nobel Peace Prize recognized King's leadership and dedication to the cause of peace and equality.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What is the definition for desegregation?
- A.
The right to fair and equal treatment, guaranteed by the Constitution.
- B.
Ending the separation of people by racial or ethnic group.
- C.
A way of bringing change without using violence.
Correct Answer
B. Ending the separation of people by racial or ethnic group.Explanation
The definition of desegregation is the act of ending the separation of people based on their racial or ethnic group. This means that individuals from different races or ethnicities are no longer segregated or kept apart from each other. Desegregation aims to promote equality and eliminate discrimination based on race or ethnicity. It is a crucial step towards achieving fair and equal treatment for all individuals, as guaranteed by the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What important law was passed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1964 that banned segregation in public places?
- A.
Civil Rights Act
- B.
Voting Rights Act
- C.
Montgomery Bus Act
Correct Answer
A. Civil Rights ActExplanation
In 1964, President Lyndon Johnson passed the Civil Rights Act, which was an important law that banned segregation in public places. This act was a landmark legislation that aimed to end racial discrimination and ensure equal rights for all citizens. It prohibited segregation based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in public facilities, such as schools, restaurants, and hotels. The Civil Rights Act was a significant step towards achieving equality and promoting social justice in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What was the purpose of the March on Washington?
- A.
To protest against police actions during the Birmingham Children's Crusade.
- B.
To show support for a bill that would end segregation in the U.S.
- C.
To support the "Brown v. Board of Education" trial.
Correct Answer
B. To show support for a bill that would end segregation in the U.S.Explanation
The purpose of the March on Washington was to show support for a bill that would end segregation in the U.S. This can be inferred from the fact that the March on Washington was a key event in the Civil Rights Movement, and it specifically aimed to advocate for civil rights and equality for African Americans. The bill being referred to is likely the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was eventually passed and outlawed racial segregation. The other options, protesting against police actions during the Birmingham Children's Crusade and supporting the "Brown v. Board of Education" trial, are not accurate as the main focus of the March on Washington was on legislation to end segregation.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Oct 26, 2009Quiz Created by
Ahougas
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