Films

Daisy Bates: First Lady of Little Rock

Film. Directed by Sharon LaCruise. 2011. 54 minutes.
Documentary on the life of Daisy Bates, best know for her role with the Little Rock Nine.

Time Periods: 20th Century
Themes: African American, Civil Rights Movements, Education, Laws & Citizen Rights, Organizing, Racism & Racial Identity, Women's History

Daisy Bates became a household name in 1957 when she fought for the right of nine African American students to attend the all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. As head of the Arkansas NAACP and advocate for the nine students, Bates would achieve instant fame as the drama played out on national television and in newspapers around the world. But that fame would prove fleeting and controversial. The film, Daisy Bates: First Lady of Little Rock takes viewers from her childhood to newspaperwoman to national Civil Rights figure to her last days in Little Rock.

Visit the website to see an overview of the film, the filmmakers, photos and press kit, and engagement resources including discussion and facilitator guides.

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