I, too, am America: The Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Movement — Test

Question 14 • Literature and Composition III

How does the mention of Governor Faubus in Jackie Robinson’s letter to President Eisenhower strengthen the main argument of the letter?

Answer

The reference provides a real-life example of a pro-segregationist and his actions, making the need for civil rights more dire.

Robinson notes that Governor Faubus spoke during the Summit Meeting of Negro Leaders and became a symbol of civil rights.

Robinson uses Governor Faubus as a metaphor for racial segregation and therefore provides a strong visual image.

The reference highlights President Eisenhower’s deep dislike of the governor and shows his willingness to remove him from office.

Explanation

Mentioning Governor Faubus gives Robinson’s argument a concrete example of opposition to desegregation: Faubus used his power to resist school integration in Little Rock. This illustrates that civil rights were being blocked in real life and strengthens Robinson’s appeal for greater federal action. The reference is not a metaphor, nor does it focus on Eisenhower’s personal dislike of Faubus.

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