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Today in History: Isaac Woodard's Beating Sparks Civil Rights Movement

2/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On February 12, 1946, Isaac Woodard Jr., an African-American World War II veteran, was brutally attacked by a South Carolina police officer shortly after his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. The assault, which left him blind, ignited national outrage and became a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, highlighting racial violence in America.

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Story summary

On February 12, 1946, Isaac Woodard Jr., an African-American World War II veteran, was brutally attacked by a South Carolina police officer shortly after his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. The assault, which left him blind, ignited national outrage and became a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, highlighting racial violence in America.