United States V. Alabama: Prejudice Case Study

Viewpoint

Discriminatory practices were encouraged, such as the Jim Crow laws that supported segregation. However, the push for segregation led to increased inequities borne by the Negroes. Many southern states encouraged segregation, as well. The original Civil Rights Act of 1957 had a limited scope, which impinged upon the rights of others.

Pros & Cons

During this time, many discriminatory cases were in the spotlight, and this was no exception. The case heightened awareness, as well as the flaws of the law. Civil Rights bills were evolving, as this case ruling was a milestone in history. Conversely, many Negroes lost their lives to the cause, thus paving the way for a more equitable justice system.

Relevance Today

Although not as prevalent today, prejudice and discrimination is still experienced by many. Civil rights are no longer reserved for race, but it has extended to other protected classes, such as gender, religion, marital status, age, etc.… This extended protection spawned several amendments and inclusions in other Acts, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1968.

Conclusion

The case between the United States v. Alabama was impetus for equality and social change. In past, Alabama has been on the forefront of covert and overt discriminatory acts since the December 14, 1819 when it was admitted into the Union as the 22nd state (A&E, 2011).Power was used to oppress those perceived as inferior, including Negroes and poor white citizens.

The Civil Rights Act of 1957 was limited in scope and violated the rights of others. Historically, voting power was reserved for individuals who were highly regarded in society. Hence, power equates to having a voice. Negroes did not have a voice; however, with the birth of the Civil Rights Act of 1960, their voices were finally heard.

References

A&E Television Networks (2011). History of Alabama. Retrieved from http://www.history.com/topics/alabama

Dysart Schools. (n.d.). Theories of Prejudice and Discrimination. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/#q=prejudice+theories&hl=en&prmd=imvns&ei=8SrQTp2tIZP_sQLpxt3IDg&start=0&sa=N&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&fp=5f6e1c9d40277296&biw=1078&bih=570

Findlaw. (2011). Supreme Court: United States v. Alabama, 362 U.S. 602 (1960)

362 U.S. 602. Retrieved from http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/getcase.pl?court=us&vol=362&invol=602

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