Presidents Kennedy & Johnson
History: KS3, topic 21.1.13
The Roles of Presidents Kennedy and Johnson
Despite the passing of new laws, many black Americans continued to face discrimination in education, housing and employment.
Reality
- Despite the passing of new laws, many black Americans continued to face discrimination in education, housing and employment as many in society still held racist views towards black people.
- They still faced violence and police harassment and were treated as second class citizens.
What did Kennedy do?
- Appointed black people to high-level jobs.
- For example, Thurgood Marshall in the courts.
- Pressed for the Civil Rights Laws, but was assassinated before it was passed.
Kennedy cont.
- Used executive orders to send federal troops to Ole’ Miss (University of Mississippi) to help James Meredith.
- Used personal pressure to get escorts for the Freedom Riders.
What did Johnson do?
- Appointed black people to high level jobs.
- For example, Patricia Harris as US Ambassador.
- Passed the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Act.
- Used executive orders to federalise state troops to escort the Selma marchers to safety.
Johnson cont.
- Used personal pressure to get Southern politicians to support the Civil Rights bill through his good relations with the Dixiecrats.
Test yourself on Presidents Kennedy & Johnson
What was the reality for many black Americans even after the new laws?
Which black American did President Johnson appoint as US Ambassador?
Which black American did President Kennedy appoint to the courts?
Which President used executive orders to send federal troops to Ole’ Miss (University of Mississippi) to help James Meredith?