Desegregation in the US Military

On July 26, 1948, President Truman ordered the integration of the US Armed Forces, a significant step towards racial equality. Despite black troops' historical contributions, they faced racial discrimination. Civil rights leaders, including A. Philip Randolph, pressured Truman to act, threatening to withdraw support for his reelection. Truman asked Congress for civil rights legislation, but when it failed, he issued an executive order. This order advanced equal rights and opportunities in the military, leading to the disbandment of the last all-black unit in 1954.

When did President Harry Truman order the integration of the US Armed Forces?

• August 15, 1947

• June 14, 1945

• July 26, 1948

• September 2, 1950

Which major US war did black troops NOT participate in?

• American Revolution

• World War I

• Vietnam War

• World War II

Who was one of the leading advocates for desegregation in the military?

• Martin Luther King Jr.

• A. Philip Randolph

• Malcolm X

• Rosa Parks

What did black leaders threaten to do if President Truman ignored the issue of military desegregation?

• File a lawsuit

• Organize protests

• Start a new political party

• Withdraw support for his reelection

What did President Truman ask Congress to pass in February 1948?

• A healthcare reform

• A military budget increase

• A civil rights legislation

• A new tax law

When was the last all-black military unit disbanded?

• 1952

• 1950

• 1948

• 1954