African American Migration and Activism During World War II

During WWII, many African Americans moved from the South to the North for factory jobs. This was part of two major migrations, the first starting before WWI. Despite job opportunities, discrimination persisted. Activists like A. Philip Randolph fought for equal employment rights, leading to the creation of the Fair Employment Practices Commission by Roosevelt. Although this improved job access, racial tensions remained high, culminating in violent events like the 1943 Detroit riots. The ongoing struggle for civil rights became a national issue.

What was one of the main reasons African Americans moved to northern cities during World War II?

• To attend northern universities

• To find industrial jobs

• To join the military

• To escape cold weather

Who was A. Philip Randolph?

• A civil rights leader

• A famous musician

• The founder of the first black labor union

• A U.S. president

What was the purpose of the Fair Employment Practices Commission?

• To promote agricultural jobs

• To ensure fair wages for all workers

• To provide housing for war workers

• To prevent discrimination in defense jobs

How did the FEPC impact African American employment during WWII?

• It eliminated all job discrimination

• It had no effect on employment

• It improved job access but did not remove all barriers

• It only helped white workers

What event in 1943 highlighted racial tensions in the U.S.?

• The Detroit riots

• The end of World War II

• The March on Washington

• The signing of the Civil Rights Act