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The Day Big Steps Were Taken at Little Rock Today marks the 50th anniversary of the desegregation of Little Rock, Arkansas' Central High School. Confronted by hostile crowds, nine African-American students were ushered through the doors of the high school, forever challenging the nation's commitment to equal rights. Today, the students who made up the Little Rock Nine spoke to a sold-out crowd at Central High School.
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Segregation Showdown at Little Rock
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The Day Big Steps Were Taken at Little Rock

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The Day Big Steps Were Taken at Little Rock

The Day Big Steps Were Taken at Little Rock

Heard on All Things Considered

The Day Big Steps Were Taken at Little Rock

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Today marks the 50th anniversary of the desegregation of Little Rock, Arkansas' Central High School. Confronted by hostile crowds, nine African-American students were ushered through the doors of the high school, forever challenging the nation's commitment to equal rights.

Today, the students who made up the Little Rock Nine spoke in front of a sold-out crowd on the front steps of Central High, the school they first entered with a military escort.

Special Series

Segregation Showdown at Little Rock