Here are some specific examples of the discrimination and segregation that African Americans faced in urban centers during the 1950s:
* Housing: African Americans were often forced to live in segregated neighborhoods. These neighborhoods were often overcrowded and lacked basic amenities, such as running water and sewage systems.
* Education: African American children were often forced to attend segregated schools. These schools were often underfunded and overcrowded, and they provided inferior education compared to white schools.
* Employment: African Americans were often denied access to good jobs. They were often forced to work in low-paying jobs, such as janitors, maids, and factory workers.
* Transportation: African Americans were often denied access to public transportation. They were forced to walk or take taxis, which were often more expensive.
Despite these challenges, African Americans in urban centers made significant progress during the 1950s. They won important legal battles against segregation, and they began to gain access to better jobs and education. By the end of the decade, African Americans were playing a more active role in American society.