Marian Anderson: The Opera Singer Who Challenged Segregation

Marian Anderson, a renowned African-American opera singer, faced racial discrimination in the US. Despite early setbacks, she achieved international acclaim in Europe. In 1939, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) barred her from performing at Constitution Hall due to her race, sparking public outrage. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt resigned from the DAR in protest, and Anderson performed at the Lincoln Memorial, becoming a civil rights icon. Her career continued to break racial barriers, including a historic performance at the Met Opera. Anderson's conflict with the DAR highlighted racial discrimination and contributed to changing discriminatory practices in America.

What was a significant barrier Marian Anderson faced when she tried to enroll at the Philadelphia Music Academy?

• She was too young to enroll.

• She lacked the necessary musical skills.

• She was rejected due to her race.

• She could not afford the tuition fees.

Which organization blocked Marian Anderson from performing at Constitution Hall in 1939?

• The Daughters of the American Revolution

• The NAACP

• The Philadelphia Music Academy

• The New York Philharmonic

How did Eleanor Roosevelt respond to the DAR's decision to block Anderson's performance?

• She resigned from the DAR and supported Anderson's alternative concert.

• She wrote a letter of complaint to the DAR.

• She organized a protest outside Constitution Hall.

• She invited Anderson to perform at the White House instead.

What was a significant outcome of Marian Anderson's concert at the Lincoln Memorial?

• It led to her immediate acceptance at Constitution Hall.

• It marked the end of her singing career.

• It was attended by only a small audience.

• It became a symbol of the civil rights movement.

What was a notable achievement of Marian Anderson in 1955?

• She became the first African-American to perform at the Met Opera.

• She was elected to the U.S. Congress.

• She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

• She became the president of the NAACP.