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

2/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 13, 1960, African-American college students initiated the Nashville sit-ins at three lunch counters in Nashville, Tennessee. This nonviolent protest aimed to end racial segregation in public dining spaces. Coordinated by the Nashville Student Movement and the Nashville Christian Leadership Council, the sit-ins marked a significant moment in the broader civil rights 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 lunch counters in Nashville, Tennessee. This nonviolent protest aimed to end racial segregation in public dining spaces. Coordinated by the Nashville Student Movement and the Nashville Christian Leadership Council, the sit-ins marked a significant moment in the broader civil rights movement across the southern United States.