Indiana Little facts for kids

Indiana Little (1897-1970) was a brave activist who fought for the right of Black Americans to vote. She is famous for leading a large march in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1926. She wanted to make sure Black citizens could register to vote, even when many people tried to stop them.

Early Life and Family

Indiana Tuggle was born in Wyatt, Georgia, on April 15, 1897. Her parents, George and Harriet Tuggle, worked on farms. She was one of nine children. Indiana went to school until seventh grade and learned to read and write well.

In 1918, Indiana Tuggle married Terrell Little. They had two children, Lessie and Elease, while living in Georgia. In 1923, the family moved to Birmingham, Alabama.

Fighting for Voting Rights

The Fight for Black Suffrage

Even though the 19th Amendment was passed in 1920, allowing women to vote, many white officials in the Southern United States still stopped Black people from voting. They used threats and fear to keep Black citizens, especially women, from using their legal right to vote.

Indiana Little quickly became a respected leader in the Black community in Birmingham. She was known for her courage and her strong belief in fairness.

The January 1926 March

On January 18, 1926, Indiana Little led a march to the voting registrar's office. A week before, she had been denied the right to vote herself. Hundreds of Black men and women joined her. They wanted to register to vote.

At the office, Little bravely declared, "I am a free-born citizen of America. The 14th Amendment says I cannot be stopped from voting because of my race, color, or sex. I will not leave until I am registered." She also accused the officials of giving difficult tests only to Black people, which was unfair.

Little and the others were not allowed to register that day. She was arrested and treated roughly for her efforts. Her bail was set at $300, which was a lot of money back then. She was later released. Her march and arrest were talked about in newspapers across the country until 1930. Her actions also inspired other marches in the years that followed.

Later Life and Legacy

Indiana Little continued to live in Birmingham and remained active in her community and church. She was the president of the Missionary Society, a Sunday school teacher, and a Training Union teacher at the 23rd Street Baptist Church.

She finally registered to vote when she was 55 years old. Indiana Little voted for the very first time in 1957. She passed away on September 22, 1970. Her bravery helped pave the way for future civil rights efforts.