Civil Rights

As in most Southern states, the path to social justice and equality in South Carolina was filled with struggles to overcome segregation, Jim Crow laws, voter discrimination and violence.

Civil Rights History in South Carolina

Gain a deeper understanding of the civil rights movement in South Carolina as you hear stories from the people who were there and explore the sites and landmarks where history was made. Historical photos for The Legacy of Courage have been provided by Cecil Williams.

A Legacy of Courage

Discover the stories of the brave men and women who fought against inequality on the new podcast, “A Legacy of Courage,” now available on all major networks.

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Episode 1: Precursor to the Movement

From the Civil War to Jim Crow, learn about the events that set the stage for the civil rights movement in South Carolina.

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Episode 2: Separate is Not Equal

Discover the everyday acts of courage that paved the way for pivotal litigation in the fight for civil rights in South Carolina.

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Episode 3: March for Equality

Dismissed as troublemakers and instigators, college students staged peaceful marches and protests that often ended with arrests and violence.

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Celebrate Black History with The Green Book of South Carolina

Discover African American cultural sites across the Palmetto State with The Green Book of South Carolina! This mobile travel guide features details and directions to more than 300 cultural sites found throughout the Palmetto State.

Charleston Hospital Workers Strike for Fair Wages

In the summer of 1969, Charleston hospital workers protested for fair wages and working conditions for African American employees.

Commemorating South Carolina's Civil Rights History

Honor the brave men and women who fought against inequality and helped spark the civil rights movement in South Carolina.

Segregated Schools: Separate is Not Equal

In 1950, Clarendon County's Briggs vs. Elliott was the first case in the twentieth century to challenge the constitutionality of racially segregated schools.

Before Rosa Parks, There was Sara Mae Flemming

Almost 17 months before Rosa Parks’ defiance sparked the Montgomery bus boycott, Sara Mae Flemming made national headlines as a civil rights beacon.

A Trip Back in Time: Mosquito Beach

As one of only six “Black beaches” in the Charleston area during Jim Crow, Mosquito Beach became known as a safe haven for the African American community.

SC HBCU Students Fight for Civil Rights in the 1960s

During the civil rights movement, students from seven historically Black colleges and universities in South Carolina sought social change through peaceful marches and sit-ins.