Truman's civil rights policies

What piece of legislation did Truman attempt to pass that congress shut down (CLUE: it wasn’t actually written into law until 2022)?

Anti-lynching laws

What was Truman the first president to do, why did he do it and why was this so surprising?

He was the first president to openly challenge segregation and the Jim Crow laws- surprising given his racist past and him being part of the KKK when he was 38. He was moved by the stories of black WWII soldiers and was aware of the power the black vote held.

How is the Truman doctrine key to understanding his stance on civil rights?

It looked incredibly hypocritical for the US to fight for freedom abroad but segregate its own citizens.

When and what was the “to secure these rights” report? (YEAR)

1947

Called for an end to segregation and discrimination in America

How did Truman attempt to tackle racial inequalities in employment?

He established a permanent FEPC in 1948 but it was weakened by a lack of funds and uncooperative employers. However, thanks to the Korean war segregation in the armed forces ended.

Did voting practices get any fairer under Truman?

No, although voter registration in the south increased by 8%, poll taxes and literacy tests were still in place despite promises made in the fair deal.

Did access to quality housing improve under Truman?

No. Although there were inner city slum clearances and lots of new housing developments, there were no affordable alternatives provided so black people faced rent increases and housing loss.

Why did so many of Truman’s civil rights proposals fail?

Republican and (most importantly) dixiecrat opposition.