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

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