Chp. 17 pt. 1

Introduction to Civil Rights

• Beginning with significant legal cases in American history, particularly in the fight against racial segregation.

Case of Iva Wells

• Iva Wells: A key figure who fought for African American rights.

• Context: In Tennessee, she argued against the undignified conditions African Americans faced while riding in smoking cars on railroads.

• Outcome: Tennessee Supreme Court sided with Wells, ending the practice of relegating African Americans to smoking cars.

• Impact: Signaled a recognition of women's rights over racial segregation in this singular case, though nationwide segregation remained prevalent.

Homer Plessy and the Fight Against Segregation

• Background of Homer Plessy: Identified as African American due to one grandparent being Black, despite his light skin that often allowed him to