The Little Rock Nine | School Desegregation 1957

The Little Rock Nine, a group of nine African American students, began desegregating Arkansas’s Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Despite the danger and daily harassment requiring military guards, the students excelled in life.

Melba Pattillo Beals experienced severe harassment and threats at school. She wrote about her struggles in her memoir, “Warriors Don’t Cry.”

Once suspended for accidentally spilling chili on white students while being harassed, Minnijean Brown-Trickey underwent another suspension. She then transferred to a school in New York City. She became a social activist and worked for the Canadian government on diversity issues. 

A photographer captured Elizabeth Eckford walking alone to school on her first day, surrounded by a hostile mob. She later worked as a journalist and in public service. Her image became an iconic symbol of the civil rights movement.

Ernest Green was the first African American to graduate from Central High School. He later served as assistant secretary of Labor under President Jimmy Carter.

Gloria Ray Karlmark faced daily hostility but persevered through the school year. She became a scientist and patent attorney, then worked internationally in technology and publishing.

Carlotta Walls LaNier was the youngest of the Little Rock Nine. She became a real estate broker and wrote about her experience in “A Mighty Long Way.”

Thelma Mothershed completed her coursework at Central High but graduated elsewhere because of safety concerns. She became a teacher and earned several awards for her work in education and community service.

Terrence Roberts, facing severe hostility, transferred to a school in Los Angeles. He became a clinical psychologist and professor. 

Jefferson Thomas endured constant harassment, served in the military, and worked as an accountant.