In October 1962, James Meredith became the first African American to enroll at the University of Mississippi. Rioting occurred on campus resulting in two deaths. More than 500 federal marshals, federal troops, and the National Guard were called in to restore order. Despite the fact that he was harassed on campus, Meredith persevered and graduated with a degree in political science in August 1963.
This fall, James Meredith will be inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame of the University of Mississippi. The highest honor bestowed by the Ole Miss Alumni Association, inductees of the Hall of Fame are recognized for “an outstanding contribution to their country, state or university through good deeds, services, or contributions that have perpetuated the good name of Ole Miss.”
Meredith went on to earn a master’s degree in economics at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria and a law degree at Columbia University in New York.
Meredith, now 85 years old, was shot during a voting rights march in 1966. He later became active in Republican Party politics. He is the author of 27 books.
