The story of Brown v. Board of Education, which ended legal segregation in public schools, is one of hope and courage. When the people agreed to be plaintiffs in the case, they never knew they would change history. The people who make up this story were ordinary people. They were teachers, secretaries, welders, ministers and students who simply wanted to be treated equally.
The Five Cases
In December, l952, the United States Supreme Court had on its docket cases from Kansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, South Carolina, and Virginia, all of which challenged the constitutionality of racial segregation in public schools. The Court had consolidated these five cases under one name, Oliver Brown et al. v. the Board of Education of Topeka. more...
Timeline
What percentage of Virginia's population was represented by African Americans in 1670? When did the U.S. Supreme Court rule that "separate but equal" segregated facilities on public transportation were constitutional? What year did President Harry S. Truman issue an executive order to ban segregation in the armed forces? more...
Superintendent's Welcome
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site keeps alive and furthers the legacy of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that forever changed this country’s history. The National Park Service cares for special places and special stories saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage. We are proud to share this very American story with those who may visit in person or with those who may visit through our outreach efforts.
