Throughout Detroit's history, violence and racial conflicts have been present as it has progressed. One way that is has been expressed within the city is through riots. Riots had started to gain popularity and were making their way through the country during the early to mid 90's and eventually reached Detroit where serious damage was done as a result.
Citizens walking along the destroyed streets after the 1967 riot.
African American citizens were lined up by police, who were trying to find a possible sniper among the group.
Historical Significance
The Detroit riot of 1943 was the first major event in Detroit where African Americans were fighting for respect. People were made aware that the treatment of African Americans was something that they were not pleased with , and they were no longer going to sit back and accept it. The riots were a way for people to band together and push towards change. The aftermath of the 12th Street riot was "white flight". Many white citizens of Detroit left the city because they feared staying would lead to danger. Since people began leaving the city, a lot of areas in Detroit became vacant. The decrease in population lead the city to become unfavorable and turn to crime and violence. This lead to the greater downfall of Detroit, it was then known for violence and racial tension. Citizens had destroyed their own homes and community. Although riots did much damage, they also created awareness of inequality among races.
The Detroit riot of 1943 was the first major event in Detroit where African Americans were fighting for respect. People were made aware that the treatment of African Americans was something that they were not pleased with , and they were no longer going to sit back and accept it. The riots were a way for people to band together and push towards change. The aftermath of the 12th Street riot was "white flight". Many white citizens of Detroit left the city because they feared staying would lead to danger. Since people began leaving the city, a lot of areas in Detroit became vacant. The decrease in population lead the city to become unfavorable and turn to crime and violence. This lead to the greater downfall of Detroit, it was then known for violence and racial tension. Citizens had destroyed their own homes and community. Although riots did much damage, they also created awareness of inequality among races.