Events at Little Rock, 1957

What did the Brown case lead to?

The school board agreeing that Little Rock High School would be desegregated on 3 September 1957, at the start of the new school term.

What did the NAACP do for the new black students?

To arrive there together on 4 September.

What did Faubus do and why?

He sent 250 state troops to surround the school when the Little Rock Nine were due to start as he said this was to “keep the peace”.

What was the reality of Faubus’ decision?

It blocked the black students from gaining entrance.

What happened to Elizabeth Eckford?

She didn’t get the notification to arrive with the rest of the group, so was targeted by the crowd and racially abused.

What did district judges and lawyers for the NAACP do?

They used the courts to challenge Faubus and force him to withdraw the state troops.

What did President Eisenhower do on 24 September and why?

President Eisenhower sent in federal troops, to ensure black students could attend without being attacked.