The Montgomery Bus Boycott Flashcards
Who was in charge of the Boycott?
Martin Luther King; this was decided at Hold Street Baptist Church
What was this Boycott a result of?
Rosa Park’s unjust arrest
How long was the Boycott?
At first it was a one day boycott, but later expanded to a year after they saw the success of one day.
What did the Police Commissioner of Montgomery quote?
“We expect the city bus lines of Montgomery and the people of Montgomery to continue to obey all segregation laws”
Why would the Boycott be threatening?
75% of riders were black, it would be an economic threat as the boycott would ensure that the bus system was losing out on money.
What are the details of the Boycott?
They set up 40 pickup stations around town of taxis and carpools; more than a thousand rides a day
How much did the Montgomery Bus lines lose?
$3,000 a day in loss revenue
What were the reactions of the Boycott?
White pro-segregationists reacted with violence towards black people
The clans would ride through on horses and attempt to intimidate
Why was MLK’s strategy astute?
MLK promoted being non violent to any intimidation
= To not let white people determine the terms of their interaction
What were some of MLK’s key principles to non violence?
You can be courageous without being violent, as it gives nothing for the opponent to react to.
To break the cycle of violence through reconciliation and create lasting peace
What was the positive outcome of this Boycott?
Rosa Parks’ lawyer, Fred Gray advocates why segregation on public transport are not right.
The US Supreme court acknowledged this and ruled that segregation on public transport is unconstitutional.
How long did the Boycott last?
381 days
