The Little Rock Nine were a group of nine black students who were enrolled at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957. Their enrollment and subsequent desegregation of the school were a major flashpoint in the civil rights movement.
The Little Rock Nine were:
* Ernest Green
* Melba Pattillo Beals
* Elizabeth Eckford
* Hazel Massery
* Minnijean Brown
* Gloria Ray Karlmark
* Terrence Roberts
* Jefferson Thomas
* Carlotta Walls Lanier
The Little Rock Nine were initially prevented from attending school by the Arkansas National Guard, under orders from Governor Orval Faubus. President Eisenhower eventually sent federal troops to Little Rock to enforce the students' right to enroll.
The Little Rock Nine endured significant harassment and intimidation from white students, faculty, and community members during their time at Central High School. However, they persevered and graduated in 1960.
The Little Rock Nine's story is an iconic example of the challenges and courage faced by those who worked for civil rights and desegregation in the United States.