The riots of 1965-67 and the Kerner Report (1968)
I can describe the events of the Watts riots, and explain the significance of the riots that followed.
The riots of 1965-67 and the Kerner Report (1968)
I can describe the events of the Watts riots, and explain the significance of the riots that followed.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Despite the passing of new acts, rates of unemployment and poverty were still high amongst black Americans.
- The Watts riots triggered three summers of rioting across the US.
- President Johnson ordered an investigation into the causes of the riots, to prevent further outbreaks.
- The Kerner Report said the lack of economic opportunity and ongoing racial discrimination as the cause of the riots.
Keywords
Discrimination - discrimination is the unjust treatment of a person or group of people, usually on the grounds of a physical quality or belief
Commission - a commission is a group of people trusted by a government to carry out a task, usually an investigation
Common misconception
The Voting Rights Act (1965) marked the end of protests to fight against racial injustice.
Many people felt the acts were too little too late as unemployment rates remained high and daily discrimination continued - for many, in the form of poverty.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
Loading...