Greensboro Rally Violence: Klan and Neo-Nazi Attack
November 3rd, 1979
November 3rd, 1979

How Long Ago?
45 years, 4 months, 12 days ago
Location
Greensboro, North Carolina, United States
Category
Social Movements & Civil Rights
People
- Sandy Smith
- Michael Nathan
- Don Wilkins
- Arnold Johnson
- Jerry Paul
Links & References
- Ku Klux Klan
- Greensboro, North Carolina
- Greensboro massacre
- Communist Workers' Party (United States)
- Neo-Nazism
Tags
Greensboro Rally Violence: Klan and Neo-Nazi Attack
During a rally organized by the Communist Workers Party in Greensboro, North Carolina, a tragic confrontation occurred when members of the KKK and neo-Nazi groups attacked. Five individuals from the Communist Workers Party were shot and killed, while seven others sustained injuries. The rally aimed to protest against the Klan and highlight issues related to racism and violence in the community.
Five killed by Klan and neo-Nazis at rally
Seven others injured during the violent clash
Protest aimed against KKK and racism
Event sparked national conversations on hate groups
What Happened?
The Greensboro massacre took place during a 'Death to the Klan' rally organized by the Communist Workers Party in Greensboro, North Carolina. The event aimed to protest the violence and racism associated with the Ku Klux Klan. Tensions escalated when a group of Klansmen and neo-Nazis confronted the rally participants, resulting in a violent clash. Armed with firearms, the assailants opened fire on the crowd, leading to the deaths of five members of the Communist Workers Party and injuring seven others. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos and fear as attendees tried to escape the onsite violence.
In the aftermath, the incident drew national attention and revived public discourse on the activities of hate groups in the United States. Investigations into the events of that day revealed a complicated interplay of racial tensions and ideological confrontation. The media coverage highlighted both the plight of the victims and the persistent issues of racism and political violence that plagued American society at the time.
Subsequently, the Greensboro massacre not only affected the local community in North Carolina but also resonated across the country, prompting discussions around issues of free speech, the right to protest, and the fight against domestic terrorism in the form of organized hate groups. The legacy of this event continues to inform current dialogues on race, violence, and civil rights.
Why Does it Matter?
The Greensboro massacre holds significant historical importance as it underscores the violent confrontations between civil rights activists and hate groups in the late 20th century. It serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against racism and the challenges faced by social movements advocating for equality. The event's repercussions prompted legislation and policy discussions aimed at curtailing the influence of hate groups and addressing violent extremism.
Discover More Historic Events from November 3rd
Contested 2020 U.S. Presidential Election
The 2020 United States presidential election saw Democratic nominee Joe Biden and Republican incumbent Donald Trump compete in a highly polarized political environment. With the election taking place amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in mail-in voting. On November 7, Biden was declared the winner, marking a pivotal moment in American politics as he secured key battleground states, leading to his eventual victory in the Electoral College and the popular vote.
Continue ReadingOne World Trade Center Celebrates Official Opening
One World Trade Center, the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan, officially opened to tenants. Standing at 1,776 feet, it became the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The opening marked a significant moment in New York City's recovery after the September 11 attacks. The skyscraper symbolizes resilience and renewal, housing offices, an observation deck, and a restaurant, while also serving as a tribute to those who lost their lives in 2001.
Continue ReadingUS Sanctions Imposed on Sudan for Human Rights Violations
The United States imposed economic sanctions on Sudan, citing the country's persistent human rights abuses and its support for Islamic extremist groups. The decision aimed to hold the Sudanese government accountable for its actions against its citizens and its geopolitical role in supporting extremism. This move marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Sudan, tightening economic ties in response to ongoing violations.
Continue ReadingDeath of Abdullah Çatlı in Susurluk Crash
Abdullah Çatlı, the prominent leader of the Turkish ultranationalist organization Grey Wolves, died in a car crash in Susurluk, Turkey. The crash also involved a police officer, raising questions about government connections to organized crime. Following the incident, Turkish Interior Minister Mehmet Ağar, affiliated with the True Path Party, resigned amid public scrutiny and allegations linking government officials to criminal activities.
Continue ReadingSpace Shuttle Atlantis Launches on STS-66
On November 3, 1994, the Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on the STS-66 mission from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This mission was notable for its role in conducting research for NASA and included the deployment of the European Space Agency’s ATLAS-3 payload. The mission aimed to gather information on the Earth's atmosphere, solar radiation, and various scientific experiments conducted in microgravity, making it a crucial venture in the understanding of space science.
Continue ReadingBill Clinton Wins Against Bush and Perot
In the 1992 United States presidential election, Democratic candidate Bill Clinton defeated incumbent Republican President George H. W. Bush and Independent candidate Ross Perot. Clinton's focus on economic issues resonated with voters amid a recession. The election, held on November 3, saw voter turnout play a critical role, as Clinton's campaign effectively mobilized support by addressing concerns over the economy and health care. His victory marked a significant shift in political power from the Republican to the Democratic Party and highlighted the emergence of third-party candidates like Perot who captured a significant share of the vote.
Continue Reading