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Today in History: Nashville Sit-Ins Begin to Challenge Segregation

2/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On February 13, 1960, African-American college students initiated the Nashville sit-ins at three downtown lunch counters to protest racial segregation. Organized by the Nashville Student Movement and the Nashville Christian Leadership Council, this campaign emphasized disciplined nonviolence and marked a significant moment in the broader sit-in movement across the southern United States.

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Story summary

On February 13, 1960, African-American college students initiated the Nashville sit-ins at three downtown lunch counters to protest racial segregation. Organized by the Nashville Student Movement and the Nashville Christian Leadership Council, this campaign emphasized disciplined nonviolence and marked a significant moment in the broader sit-in movement across the southern United States.