A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What events characterized the Red Summer of 1919 in America?

1. Labor strikes nationwide

2. Segregation protests leading to riots

3. Women's suffrage demonstrations

4. War bond rallies

The correct answer is: Segregation protests leading to riots

The Red Summer of 1919 is primarily characterized by racial tensions and violence that erupted in various cities across the United States. During this period, numerous race riots occurred, driven by factors such as the Great Migration, which saw large numbers of African Americans moving to northern cities, and increasing competition for jobs and housing. The most notable of these events included the Chicago Race Riot, which resulted from tensions fueled by competition and the longstanding issue of segregation. Other cities, such as Washington D.C. and Knoxville, also faced violent racial confrontations. These riots were a manifestation of the deep-seated racial animosities prevalent in American society at the time, reflecting systemic issues of segregation and inequality. While labor strikes did occur around this time and contributed to social unrest, it was the racial violence and protests against segregation that specifically marked the Red Summer, distinguishing it from broader labor-related movements. Women's suffrage demonstrations and war bond rallies, although significant events in their own right, were not defining characteristics of the Red Summer. Thus, option B accurately reflects the major events associated with this tense and turbulent season in American history.