Summary

Blacks across the nation were excited about the Brown decision. There was jubilation, hope and optimism. The NAACP staff in New York was speechless and in awe. Marshall warned them that their work had just begun. He felt school segregation could be eradicated in five years. Others felt it had broader and longer reaching influence including an impact on the Cold War and foreign policy. Black leaders hoped that the decision would positively impact all areas of American life. The decision propelled strong anti-racist voices into the 1960s and ultimately toward the civil rights movement. Many blacks were skeptical due to their experiences and remained in a wait and see stature.

Some southern politicians were resigned to the change. Border state governors proclaimed they would stand by it. But trouble was brewing. Based on a few events that alleged occurred between white...