After the Nine's first attempt on September 4th, Governor Faubus and President Eisenhower negotiated for 3 weeks. During this time, the Nine weren't allowed to enter the school, but Daisy went to Central every day to collect their homework.
Governor Faubus
Source: Wisconsin Historical Society Archives, 1957
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"….being aware of the overwhelming evidence of impending disorder which could lead to violence and even bloodshed, I have therefore, in accordance with the solemn responsibilities and my Oath of Office, made the decision to act and to act now. I have, therefore, taken the following action: Units of the National Guard have been, or are now being mobilized, with the mission to maintain or restore the peace and order of the community. Advance units are already on duty on the grounds of Central High School…They will not act as segregationists or integrationists, but as soldiers called to active duty to carry out their assigned tasks…"
- Governor Faubus |
Ernest Green, one of the Nine, speaks about Governor Faubus:
Video courtesy of http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MijCzE9Y1DI
President Eisenhower
"...To support and defend the Constitution of the United States is my solemn oath as your President - - a pledge which imposes upon me the responsibility to see that the laws of our country are faithfully executed. I shall continue to discharge the responsibility in the interest of all Americans today, as well as to preserve our free institutions of government for the sake of Americans yet unborn."
- Letter to Carlotta Walls' (one of the Nine) mother from President Eisenhower
- Letter to Carlotta Walls' (one of the Nine) mother from President Eisenhower
President Eisenhower demands that all Arkansas citizens obey the law:
Video courtesy of http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bzmtkhXAno
Reporter at Central describes the situation:
Video courtesy of http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oodolEmUg2g
Some thought that President Eisenhower shouldn't have intervened in a "states' rights" issue.