Breach of Peace (book) facts for kids
![]() Book cover
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Author | Eric Etheridge |
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Publisher | Atlas & Co. |
Publication date
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2008 |
ISBN | 9780977743391 |
OCLC | 191245899 |
Breach of Peace: Portraits of the 1961 Mississippi Freedom Riders is an important book from 2008 by Eric Etheridge. It tells the stories of more than 80 brave people known as the Freedom Riders. These individuals worked hard to end segregation on buses that traveled between states in the Deep South of the United States.
The book shows special photos of these Freedom Riders. It includes their original police photos, taken when they were arrested for protesting unfair laws. It also features new portraits taken by Eric Etheridge many years later. These old police photos were kept hidden for decades by a group called the Mississippi State Sovereignty Commission. This was a state agency that tried to stop the Civil Rights Movement.
Contents
Discovering the Freedom Riders' Stories
Breach of Peace helps us understand a key part of American history. It brings to life the experiences of people who risked a lot for fairness. The book shows how their actions made a big difference.
Who Were the Freedom Riders?
The Freedom Riders were a group of civil rights activists. In 1961, they rode buses into the southern states. Their goal was to challenge unfair laws that kept Black and white people separate. These laws were called "segregation." The Freedom Riders wanted to make sure everyone could use public transportation equally.
They faced many dangers during their rides. Many were arrested or attacked. But their courage helped to change laws and bring about more equality. Their actions were a vital part of the larger Civil Rights Movement. This movement worked to end discrimination against African Americans.
The Power of Pictures: Then and Now
The book is unique because it pairs old police photos with new ones. The original photos were taken when the Freedom Riders were arrested. They show the young faces of people fighting for change. These photos were stored by a state group that opposed the Civil Rights Movement.
Eric Etheridge found these old photos. He then took new pictures of the same people 45 years later. This shows how much time has passed. It also highlights the lasting impact of their bravery. The book helps us see the journey of these heroes.
Why These Stories Matter Today
The stories in Breach of Peace remind us about the importance of standing up for what is right. The Freedom Riders fought for basic human rights. Their efforts helped to make the United States a fairer place for everyone. The book helps young people learn about this important time in history. It shows how ordinary people can create extraordinary change.