Medgar Evers

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American civil rights activist

Medgar Wiley Evers (July 2, 1925 – June 12, 1963) was an American civil rights activist in Mississippi, the state's field secretary for the NAACP, and a World War II veteran. He worked to overturn segregation at the University of Mississippi, end the segregation of public facilities, and expand opportunities for African Americans, including the enforcement of voting rights.

Early life and education

Medgar Evers was born in Decatur, Mississippi, the third of five children. He attended segregated schools and graduated from Alcorn State University in 1952. During World War II, Evers served in the United States Army and participated in the Normandy Invasion.

Civil rights activism

After completing his education, Evers moved to Mound Bayou, Mississippi, where he worked for an insurance company. In 1954, he became the first field secretary for the NAACP in Mississippi. Evers was involved in efforts to desegregate the University of Mississippi and investigated crimes against African Americans, including the Emmett Till murder.

Evers organized voter registration efforts, economic boycotts, and demonstrations. He was instrumental in the campaign to desegregate public facilities in Jackson, Mississippi. His work made him a target of white supremacists.

Assassination

On June 12, 1963, Evers was assassinated in the driveway of his home in Jackson, Mississippi, by Byron De La Beckwith, a member of the White Citizens' Council. Evers was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. His death was a catalyst for the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Legacy

Medgar Evers' legacy lives on through various memorials and institutions named in his honor, including Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York, and the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument in Jackson, Mississippi. His widow, Myrlie Evers-Williams, continued his work in civil rights and served as chairwoman of the NAACP.

See also

• Civil rights movement
• NAACP
• Emmett Till
• University of Mississippi
• Myrlie Evers-Williams
• Civil Rights Act of 1964

External links

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