Democracy in Action
Democracy in Action
Description:
Despite federal laws outlawing racial segregation, interstate bus travel through the American South in 1961 still reinforced segregated sections in buses and terminals. In the spring of that year, a group of civil rights activists (Freedom Riders) rode buses into the South to challenge this ingrained bigotry and challenge the local customs that allowed racism to continue. This teacher's guide examines the Freedom Riders and who they were, the social climate in America in the early 1960s, how the media influenced political and social events, and how citizens can shape democracy. This guide is meant to accompany the 2011 film "The Freedom Riders" produced by WGBH, the Boston PBS affiliate. Please note that this teacher's guide does contain some offensive language and terms relating to race. The authors of the guide decided to include the "N" word to honestly communicate the harshness of the bigoted language of the time.
Education Levels:
9, 10, 11, 12
Subject:
Human Relations, United States History, Civics, United States Government
Resource Type:
Curriculum
Fee Status:
Free
Online provider:
PBS American Experience
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