Question

What is the most likely reason that President Johnson decided to end his speech to Congress with the phrase "And we shall overcome"? (A) "We Shall Overcome" was a protest song that was a key anthem of the Civil Rights movement. (B) He meant that we (the government) would come over to Alabama to set things right. (C) He meant that African Americans would soon get over their desire to gain the right to vote. (D) He meant that Governor Wallace would soon achieve victory.

Short answer

(A) "We Shall Overcome" was a protest song that was a key anthem of the Civil Rights movement.

Step-by-step solution

Historical background of "We Shall Overcome"

In the context of the American Civil Rights movement in the 1960s, "We Shall Overcome" was a song that turned into an anthem of unity and resilience for the people involved in fighting discrimination and seeking equal rights. It symbolizes the struggle for equality, social justice, and the end of racial segregation.

Understanding President Johnson's Speech

The speech in question was delivered by President Lyndon B. Johnson to Congress, where he sought support for a voting rights act following the events of "Bloody Sunday," a violent altercation between African American civil rights activists and local police in Selma, Alabama. The context of the speech was aimed at uniting the nation to fight for the rights of African Americans and supporting their cause.

Comparing the given options

Now that we have an understanding of the historical background and context of the speech, let's compare the options: (A) "We Shall Overcome" was a protest song that was a key anthem of the Civil Rights movement. This option refers to the significance within the Civil Rights movement and connects it to the purpose of Johnson's speech, making it a likely reason for him using the phrase. (B) He meant that we (the government) would come over to Alabama to set things right. This option does not capture the essence of "We Shall Overcome" or its connection to the Civil Rights movement. It is an unlikely reason for Johnson to end his speech with that phrase. (C) He meant that African Americans would soon get over their desire to gain the right to vote. This option contradicts the purpose of Johnson's speech and the Civil Rights movement altogether. It is an unlikely reason for him using the phrase. (D) He meant that Governor Wallace would soon achieve victory. This option does not relate to the theme of the Civil Rights movement or the campaign for equal rights. It is an unlikely reason for Johnson to end his speech with "We Shall Overcome."

Determining the most likely reason

After comparing the options, the most likely reason that President Johnson decided to end his speech to Congress with the phrase "And we shall overcome" is: (A) "We Shall Overcome" was a protest song that was a key anthem of the Civil Rights movement. This choice highlights the importance of the phrase within the context of the Civil Rights movement and connects it directly to the speech's overall purpose: to support equal rights and voting rights for African Americans.

Key concepts

Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal era in American history, centered on the relentless struggle for African Americans to gain equal rights under the law. The movement famously spanned the 1950s and 1960s and heralded a series of social and legislative changes aimed at dismantling racial segregation and discrimination.

To understand the movement's significance, one must consider the context of the time – a period marked by Jim Crow laws, disenfranchisement, and institutional racism. Activists utilized nonviolent protests, civil disobedience, and legal challenges to bring about change. Key events, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the Selma to Montgomery marches, galvanized public support and pressured the government to act.

Influence of Music and Art

Music and art played an instrumental role within the movement, with songs like 'We Shall Overcome' rallying cries that united demonstrators, offering hope and solidarity. This song, in particular, encapsulated the spirit of the movement and became an anthem for those fighting for civil rights.

Lyndon B. Johnson Speech

President Lyndon B. Johnson's speech to Congress on March 15, 1965, was a critical moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Following the horrific events of 'Bloody Sunday' in Selma, Alabama, where peaceful protesters were met with violent resistance, Johnson delivered a passionate appeal for voting rights legislation.

The speech marked a turning point in the government's approach to civil rights. Johnson invoked the phrase 'We shall overcome', borrowing explicitly from the movement's anthem to underline his commitment to the cause. By doing so, he aligned himself with the activists and their struggle, thus making it clear that the federal government would no longer tolerate the systemic disenfranchisement of African American citizens.

Political Significance

Johnson's choice to use 'We Shall Overcome' was a calculated political move, signaling to both Congress and the nation the urgency and righteousness of the voting rights cause. It also helped to shift the narrative, portraying the government as an ally in the fight for equality.

Voting Rights Act

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is widely considered one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in American history. Its passage aimed to eliminate the barriers to voting that African Americans faced, particularly in the Southern states. Prior to the act, practices like literacy tests and poll taxes were commonly used to suppress the black vote.

This landmark piece of legislation outlawed discriminatory voting practices and gave the federal government the power to oversee voter registration and election procedures in states with histories of voting-related discrimination. As a result, the number of African American voters dramatically increased, paving the way for more equitable political representation.

Long-Term Impact

The Voting Rights Act has had far-reaching implications, shaping the political landscape of the United States for generations. It has been subject to amendments over the years to address new challenges and is still the subject of political debate and legal interpretation.