Oral History Interview with African-American Politician Robert G. Clark, Jr., in Pickens, Mississippi, March 13, 2013

    Embedded Resource

Courtesy of Library of Congress, Clark, Robert G., "Robert G. Clark, Jr., oral history interview conducted by John Dittmer in Pickens, Mississippi, 2013-03-13.," 13 March 2013

Description 

Robert G. Clark, Jr., describes the early life experiences that led up to his successful campaign for political office in the Mississippi legislature, where he became the first African American elected since Reconstruction. Clark discusses his career as an educator, how the Civil Rights Movement influenced him, and the danger he experienced signing up African-American voters.

Full Transcription of Robert G. Clark's Interview

Transcribed Excerpts from Robert G. Clark's Interview

Source-Dependent Questions

• What is the history of the house that Robert Clark lives in? How would the history of the house and land impact Clark's life?
• What did Robert experience with the Citizens Council? Why might Clark's drive to keep his personhood or manhood go against the Citizens Council?
• What dangers did Clark, as well as his friend and family, experience as they helped African Americans register to vote?

Citation Information 

Clark, Robert G., "Robert G. Clark, Jr., oral history interview conducted by John Dittmer in Pickens, Mississippi, 2013-03-13.," 13 March 2013. Courtesy of Library of Congress