Asked by Caden Foster on Jun 07, 2024

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Which of the following may be considered the underlying reason for the Watts race riot of 1965?

A) African Americans resented the fact that they were drafted disproportionately to whites to fight in Vietnam.
B) African Americans were frustrated and angry over their joblessness and lack of opportunity.
C) Radical left-wing instigators incited African Americans to engage in violence.
D) Whites were angry over the expansion of the African-American neighborhood of Watts into surrounding white neighborhoods.

Watts Race Riot

A violent disturbance that took place in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles in 1965, illustrating tensions between African American residents and the police.

Lack of Opportunity

A situation where individuals or groups have limited options or chances for advancement and success.

  • Examine the causes and effects of racial tensions and urban unrest during the 1960s.
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Numair AhmedJun 09, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
The underlying reason for the Watts race riot of 1965 was African American frustration and anger over their joblessness and lack of opportunity. The riot erupted after a routine traffic stop and arrest of an African American man by white police officers, which was perceived as yet another instance of police harassment and brutality towards African Americans. The riot lasted for six days and resulted in 34 deaths, over 1,000 injuries, and extensive property damage. The riot also laid bare the deep racial and socioeconomic tensions that plagued American society at the time.