To the children of America.

The Beginning:

African Americans had longed for equality since Reconstruction occurred in America. The Reconstruction era took place between 1861 and 1901. African Americans were no longer slaves, and the government had to figure out how they would fit these newly freed citizens into society. 

As a result, laws by the name of the Jim Crow Laws were passed. These laws allowed segregation. Segregation is the mandated separation of races in public spaces. For example, you would go to an all-white school if you were white. African Americans were unhappy with these unfair rules and wanted change.

Unhappiness Continues: 

African Americans were separated from Whites for many years. When America entered the First World War in 1917, African Americans were major contributors during the war and helped as soldiers. 

When World War I ended in 1918, African Americans felt that their efforts were a big reason why they won. They felt fighting in the war showed their love for America, and that they deserved equal treatment in society. 

Taking a stand:

After a similar end to World War II, African Americans began voicing their opinions. This led to what is known as the Civil Rights Movement. The first major accomplishment of this movement was Brown v. Board of Education in 1954. 

This ruling made it so all children regardless of the color of their skin could go to school together. 

Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. was an African-American man who became a leader in the civil rights movement. He was a brilliant man. He believed love and peaceful protest could eliminate racism.