The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow

"Emancipation ended slavery, but not its legacy."

A landmark four-part series exploring segregation from the end of the civil war to the dawn of the modern civil rights movement. Lynchings and beatings by night. Demeaning treatment by day. And a life of crushing subordination for Southern blacks that was maintained by white supremacist laws and customs known as "Jim Crow." It was a brutal and oppressive era in American history, but during this time, large numbers of African Americans and a corps of influential black leaders bravely fought against the status quo, amazingly acquiring for African Americans the opportunities of education, business, land ownership, and a true spirit of community.

Created By

Status

Ended

Original Name

The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow

First Air Date

October 1, 2002

Last Air Date

October 22, 2002

Seasons

1

Episodes

4

Language

English

Networks

PBS

S01E04

Terror and Triumph (1940-1954)

Amid the surge of black activism following World War II, prolonged legal battles led to Supreme Court decisions that opened doors and restored voting rights for blacks. The battle for freedom, dignity, and opportunity throughout America continued through the '50s and '60s -- and in many respects, continues today.

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