African-Americans in North and South: the impact of the Second World War; campaigns for Civil Rights; the responses of the federal and state authorities
The Second World War raised African-Americans' expectations of equality. Black Americans then organised campaigns to demand their civil rights. Federal and state governments responded in very different ways.
Real World
The 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott, triggered by Rosa Parks' arrest, lasted 381 days and ended with the Supreme Court ruling bus segregation unconstitutional — showing how organised Black communities could force federal action.
Exam Focus
For 'how far' questions, weigh federal progress (Truman's 1948 desegregation of the military) against state resistance (massive resistance in the South) explicitly.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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