Executive Order 10730
September 23, 2022 marks the 65th anniversary of Executive Order 10730: Desegregation of Central High School (1957). President Eisenhower signed the order in reaction to the “Little Rock Crisis.” On the eve of desegregation of Little Rock Central High School; Arkansas Governor Faubus called the National Guard to “preserve order.” However, it was later revealed, they were called to bar entry to the school by “Little Rock Nine.”
The Little Rock Nine
Furthermore, the “Little Rock Nine” were nine Black students enrolled to attend Arkansas Central High School. Post Brown V. Board of Education passing in 1954. Arkansas and Little Rock had plans for desegregation and were supposed to comply. However, Governor Faubus defied the nine students to enter the school. Then removed the National Guard and a full riot ensued when the nine students attempted to enter the school again. The Governor did nothing to stop the violence. Therefore, the mayor of Little Rock contacted President Eisenhower. Leading to swift action and Executive Order 10730.
Civil Rights History – Brown V. Board of Education
May 17, 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Brown vs. Topeka Board of Education; Deciding that segregation was “inherently unequal.” Ending the precedent set by Plessy V. Ferguson of “separate but equal.” Although the decision was given in 1954; the road to true segregation would be long and hard fought as the US moved toward the Civil Rights Movements of the time.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are; and while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Image Source: Getty Images
Sources: America’s Library and Archives.gov
