1. Rosa Parks and the Bus Boycott
What finally ended the boycott? The Supreme Court ruled that the Montgomery bus laws (Jim Crow laws) were illegal. In addition, the boycott was hurting the city economically.
Why is Rosa Parks known as the Mother of the Civil Rights movement? She inspired others to take appropriate action when they saw something that was unjust.
Why was Rosa Parks arrested in Montgomery?
She refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus when ordered to do so by the bus driver. Five days after the arrest she was found guilty and ordered to pay $14.
Primary Source Document
What is the main idea of the document? It established a set of guidelines that would be followed by the black community as they returned to using the buses.
How did the black community in Montgomery react? The black community boycotted the bus system. The boycott lasted for nearly 13 months.
What expectations do the writers have for the integration of buses? Be polite, non-confrontational, non-violent, quiet, and respectful to ensure a smooth transition to the new rules.
What ideas did Martin Luther King Jr. make the centerpiece of the bus boycott? Non-violent protest which would bring attention to the issue and cause economic hardship on the city.
What details in the “general suggestions” show MLK’s belief in nonviolence? Do not fight back if harassed. Do not come to the aid of someone else being mistreated. Pray for them and report violations to the bus driver.