The Newark riots unfolded over five days in July 1967, marking a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement and raising awareness of systemic racism in America. The unrest began on July 12, when a Black cab driver, John Smith, was apprehended by police. Rumors spread in the African American community that he had been severely beaten during his arrest, triggering anger and protests against the police. This incident ignited long-held frustrations regarding systemic inequality and lost opportunities affecting Black residents in Newark. Fractured relations between the police and the Black community further escalated tensions, leading to violent confrontations.

Over the course of the riots, looting, arson, and clashes with law enforcement resulted in extensive property damage, particularly in the city's downtown area. Over 1,000 people were arrested, and 26 lives were lost, with hundreds more wounded. The events sparked a broader dialogue regarding the racial climate in urban America and prompted federal and state government responses. In the aftermath, various relief and anti-poverty programs were initiated to address the root causes of the unrest, albeit with mixed success.

The riots in Newark served as a microcosm of a growing frustration with racism, economic hardship, and urban decay, culminating in a nationwide wave of riots that year. Cities like Detroit also experienced unrest, highlighting the urgent need for social reform and the impact of systemic racism on American society. The Newark riots serve as a significant reflection of the civil rights struggles faced by African Americans in urban settings during the 1960s.