A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What event triggered the Memphis race riot in 1866?

1. A white policeman's shooting altercation

2. A public gathering of black veterans

3. A protest against racial discrimination

4. A street brawl between white and black citizens

The correct answer is: A white policeman's shooting altercation

The event that triggered the Memphis race riot in 1866 was indeed related to an altercation involving a white policeman. Specifically, the riot was sparked when a white police officer attempted to arrest a black veteran, which escalated into violence and caused tensions to boil over. This incident highlighted the broader racial animosities present in post-Civil War America, particularly in cities like Memphis, where newly freed African Americans were asserting their rights and status in society. The situation was further inflamed by existing racial prejudices and the lack of effective law enforcement to protect African Americans. As a result, the riot led to widespread violence, with significant loss of life and property among the black community. This illustrates the precarious social climate of the time, where interactions between black citizens and white authorities could rapidly devolve into conflict. Understanding this context is crucial in analyzing the causes and consequences of racial violence during the Reconstruction era.