The Riots of 1965–67
History: KS3, topic 21.1.14
The Riots of 1965–67
There were major and widespread riots across the US between 1964 and 1968, starting just two weeks after the Civil Rights Act was passed.
The riots
- There were 329 major riots in 257 cities between 1964 and 1968, starting just two weeks after the Civil Rights Act was passed.
- They resulted in 220 deaths and 52,629 arrests.
Causes of the 65-67 riots
- They were partially a reaction to ghetto conditions, and police discrimination against black people in the North.
- The first was triggered when a policeman shot a young black man, and led to other cities in the North.
- The Watts riots in LA occurred after a black man was wrongfully arrested.
Long term problems
- The riots were also a protest against long term problems such as:
- City officials ignoring complaints from black neighbourhoods.
- Unemployment and low wages.
- Poor housing and living conditions.
- Poor education.
- Violence in Mississippi and Selma.
Participants and victims
- 80% of rioters were young black men, who attacked discriminating white businesses but not white people.
- In fact, more black people died during the riots than whites.
Test yourself on The Riots of 1965–67
What caused the riots of 1965–67?
How many people died during the Riots of 1965–67?