As people worked to end unfair laws during the Civil Rights Movement, others tried to stop them. In Alabama, some leaders, groups, and citizens worked to keep segregation and unfair treatment in place. They used different ways to try to stop the movement from succeeding. Even though these efforts were meant to slow down change, the courage of the Civil Rights Movement helped bring fairness and new laws.
Trying to Block Change
Some opponents used political power to stop civil rights protests. In 1963, Alabama’s governor, George Wallace, stood in front of the door at the University of Alabama to try to stop two Black students from attending. This event became known as the “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door.” Even though he tried to block them, the students were allowed to enter with protection from the federal government.
Across Alabama, some leaders supported Massive Resistance, which was a plan to avoid following desegregation laws. They passed rules to try to close schools or stop protests instead of allowing integration.
Violence Against Protestors
Opponents also used violence to try to scare people from joining the movement. In Birmingham, an area known as Dynamite Hill got its name because homes of Black families and civil rights leaders were bombed. In 1963, a terrible attack happened at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. A bomb exploded before church services, killing four young girls and injuring others. This tragedy shocked the world and brought attention to the dangers activists faced.
During peaceful marches, opponents sometimes responded with force. In 1965, marchers in Selma walked to demand voting rights. On a day known as “Bloody Sunday,” they were attacked by police on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. In Tuscaloosa in 1964, protesters were also attacked during a march that became known as “Bloody Tuesday.” Even though they faced violence, the marchers kept going and helped inspire laws to protect voting rights.
Trying to Stop Progress
Some people tried to stop civil rights progress by threatening activists or taking away jobs. Others used police power to arrest leaders and marchers. But each time opponents tried to stop the movement, more people learned about what was happening in Alabama. News stories and pictures showed the unfair treatment, and many Americans began to support civil rights more strongly.
The bravery of the marchers and leaders helped bring change, even when opponents tried to block it. Their actions led to important laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Why It Matters
The opposition to the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama showed how hard it was to fight unfair laws and treatment. But the courage of the leaders, foot soldiers, and supporters proved that peaceful protest could overcome unfairness. Their work helped change Alabama and the country for the better.