The East St. Louis Massacre and Its Effects

In July 1917, the East St. Louis Massacre resulted in a horrific display of racial violence, causing the deaths of at least 100 African Americans and displacing over 6,000 others. The tensions leading to the massacre were fueled by accusations that black workers were taking jobs and undermining wages, leading to a violent mob attack. This tragic event underscored the hostile environment African Americans faced during this period, as the police were also seeking revenge against black neighborhoods after a gunfight. The aftermath of the massacre highlighted the urgent need for social change and mobilized community leaders to take action against racial injustice.