Different Perspectives: Boston School Desegregation
Finding a Sequence
All documents and text associated with this activity are printed below, followed by a worksheet for student responses.Introduction
The case of Morgan v. Hennigan was one of the most powerful examples of the struggle of Civil Rights in cities across America. In 1973, the parents of several black students sued the Boston School Committee of violating the rights of their children. In his decision, Judge Arthur Garrity Jr. ruled that through the committee’s policy of "de facto" segregation, the committee violated the 14th amendment of the Constitution. With further resistance to desegregation in Boston schools, Judge Garrity ordered busing of thousands of students and established policies to attempt to integrate education in the city. The reaction to the decision produced tension and anger among many opposed to change.Put the documents below in order by date.
Name:
Class:
Class:
Worksheet
Different Perspectives: Boston School Desegregation
Finding a Sequence
Examine the documents in this activity. Put the corresponding document numbers in order using the list below. Write your conclusion response in the space provided.1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1
Activity Element
Page 1
2
Activity Element
Page 1
3
Activity Element
Page 1
4
Activity Element
Page 1
5
Activity Element
Page 1
6
Activity Element
Page 1
7
Activity Element
Page 1
8
Activity Element
Page 1
Conclusion
Different Perspectives: Boston School Desegregation
Finding a Sequence
After looking carefully at the documents, respond to the following:- Explain the different opinions about Boston desegregation.
- What were the reactions to desegregation?
- In what ways did desegregation seems to succeed? In what ways did it seem to fail?
- How do we see this case in the broader context of Civil Rights?
- What do you think were the affects of the integration policies?