Also American
OppressionMay 20, 1961

Freedom Riders Attacked at Montgomery Bus Station, John Lewis Beaten

Freedom Riders arriving at Montgomery, Alabama's Greyhound station were attacked by a white mob while police stood aside. John Lewis was beaten with a crate. Presidential aide John Seigenthaler was beaten unconscious trying to help a female rider. Attorney General Robert Kennedy had negotiated assurances of protection with Alabama officials that were not honored.