Compare and Contrast: “i Have a Dream” and “god’s Judgment of White America”

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The civil rights movement is most commonly viewed as simply a war between the blacks and the whites in the 1960’s. Although it is literally a point in history where we had racial divisiveness, its lasting effect has been a testament to the opportunity for change in this country. The civil rights movement has portrayed what it means to be American. Moving forward in this country, we can look back at this time in history and draw upon the strength that the African-American people had to draw upon. This becomes even apparent as we are currently struggling with LGBTQ rights, and women’s equality. At this point in time change may seem bleak. Just like the whites were resistant to change back in the 1960’s we have people today who are resistant to change as well. Although it may feel like it is just recently that people with differing opinions are preventing advancement within the social contexts of inclusivity within our culture in this country, it is a battle that has had to be constantly fought as is illustrated by the civil rights movement. The movement has been a testament to the capabilities of social tolerance, and a glimpse to the future that America can have.

Works Cited

Farber, David R. "The Meaning of National Culture." The Age of Great Dreams: America in the

1960s. New York: Hill and Wang, 2000. 66. Print.

King, Martin Luther, Jr. "I Have a Dream." March on Washington. Lincoln Memorial,

Washington DC. 28 Aug. 1963. Speech.

X, Malcolm. "God's Judgment on White America." Cory Methodist Church, Cleveland. 3 Apr.

1964. Speech.