Question

How did Harry Truman's presidency impact the civil rights of African-Americans during the late 1940's and early 1950's?

A) During Truman's presidency, African-Americans experienced an increased level of discrimination and racism.
B) Civil rights for African-Americans decreased during Truman's administration due to his segregationist policies.
C) African-Americans experienced an improved level of civil rights, including the desegregation of the military and the federal government.
D) Harry Truman's presidency had little effect of the civil rights of African-Americans because of his administration's focus on foreign affairs.

Answer 1

C) African-Americans experienced an improved level of civil rights, including the desegregation of the military and the federal government. 

In 1948, President Truman signed Executive Orders 9980 and 9981, ending segregation and discrimination in federal government and in the military. 

Executive Order 9980 began by saying, "The principles on which our Government is based require a policy of fair employment throughout the Federal establishment, without discrimination because of race, color, religion, or national origin."

Executive Order 9981 stated:  "There shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed forces without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin."