Race riots in Philadelphia during the 1919 Red Summer facts for kids
| Part of the Red Summer | |
25h and Pine street, where the May 9 riot took place
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| Date | 1919 Red Summer |
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| Location | Philadelphia, United States |
During the summer of 1919, a series of violent events called the Red Summer happened across the United States. Philadelphia was one of the cities that saw these conflicts. These events were often called "race riots" and involved clashes between white and African-American groups.
Contents
Why the Riots Happened
Moving to New Homes
Many African-Americans moved from the southern states to the industrial northern cities. This big move is known as the Great Migration. They were looking for better jobs and new opportunities.
New Neighbors, New Tensions
As more African-Americans moved, they sometimes settled in neighborhoods that were mostly white. This led to high tensions and disagreements. In 1918, a riot happened in Chester and Philadelphia. It lasted for four days, starting on July 25. After the violence ended, five people had died from their injuries.
Events in May 1919
Trouble on Pine Street
In Philadelphia, the arrival of new Black families caused a lot of tension. This was especially true around Twenty-fifth and Pine streets. A local gang made things worse by bothering the new Black residents.
A Mob Attacks a Family
On May 9, a large group of white people gathered. They clashed with a large group of Black people. The white mob then broke into a home at 2535 Pine Street. They tried to force George Grahm and his Black family out of their home. The family had only moved in a week before. Several people were arrested after this event.
Events in July 1919
Clashes at a Carnival
The New York Times newspaper reported on two riots in July 1919. These happened on July 7 and July 31. Authors Rucker and Upton also wrote about a fight during a carnival. A large group of white people fought with a group of Black people.
Police Step In
The violence was quickly stopped when over 100 police officers arrived. They made arrests and brought the situation under control.
What Happened Next
The Red Summer Continues
The events in Philadelphia were part of many similar incidents in 1919. This period is known as the Red Summer. During this time, there were attacks on Black communities. White mobs often attacked African-American neighborhoods. This happened in over three dozen cities and counties.
Resistance and Losses
In some places, like Chicago and Washington, D.C., Black community groups fought back. Many people died, especially in rural areas. For example, during the Elaine Massacre in Arkansas, many Black people and some white people were killed. Other major events included the Chicago Race Riot and the Washington D.C. race riot. These events also caused many injuries and a lot of property damage.
