Port Arthur riot 1919 facts for kids
| Part of Red Summer | |
July US News coverage of the Port Arthur riot 1919
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| Date | July 15, 1919 |
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| Location | Port Arthur, Texas |
| Non-fatal injuries | Dozens wounded |
The Port Arthur riot was a serious event that happened on July 15, 1919, in Port Arthur, Texas. It was a time of conflict between groups of white and African American people. The trouble began when some white men became upset because an African American man was smoking near a white woman on a streetcar. This disagreement quickly grew into a street fight. Many people were hurt, with some suffering serious injuries.
What Happened After the Riot
This event in Port Arthur was one of many similar conflicts that took place across the United States during a period known as the Red Summer. The "Red Summer" of 1919 was a time when many cities and towns experienced racial violence.
The Red Summer of 1919
During the Red Summer, there were many attacks on African American communities. In most cases, large groups of white people attacked neighborhoods where African Americans lived. However, in some cities like Chicago and Washington D.C., African American community groups bravely stood up and defended themselves against these attacks.
Other Events During the Red Summer
The violence of the Red Summer was widespread. Some of the most serious events happened in rural areas. For example, the Elaine Race Riot in Arkansas led to many deaths. Other major events included the Chicago Race Riot and the Washington D.C. race riot. These riots caused many injuries and a lot of damage to buildings and homes. The Port Arthur riot was an important part of this difficult time in American history, showing the racial tensions that existed.
