How do Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. Board of Education compare?

How do Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. Board of Education compare?

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) upheld racial segregation under the "separate but equal" doctrine, while Brown v. Board of Education (1954) overturned it, declaring that separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.

What were the main arguments in Plessy v. Ferguson?

The main arguments in Plessy v. Ferguson centered around the legality of racial segregation and the interpretation of the 14th Amendment, which guarantees equal protection under the law.

And what about Brown v. Board of Education?

In Brown v. Board of Education, the arguments focused on the psychological effects of segregation on African American children and how it violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.

What impact did these cases have on civil rights?

Both cases significantly impacted civil rights; Plessy legitimized segregation, while Brown served as a catalyst for the civil rights movement, leading to desegregation efforts across the country.

Can you summarize the differences in their outcomes?

Certainly! Plessy v. Ferguson reinforced segregation laws, while Brown v. Board of Education dismantled them, marking a pivotal shift towards equality in education.