The sit-ins at the Woolworth lunch counter and the anger displayed by many white Americans during this time is an example of how racism still played a significant role in American society.
During this era, there were still many negative stereotypes about African-Americans, causing many white American citizens to view them as somewhat inferior. Along with this, many white Americans did not want integration because they were scared of change. These citizens liked the way society was structure and did not want to change the social norms at this time. Eating at a white's only restaurant gave them a sense of comfort and consistency that they have grown accustomed to throughout their lives.
Integrating these types of facilities would change everything.
Prior to the American Revolution, the British
repealed all of the new taxes they had levied on the colonists, with the
exception of the "sin" taxes, such as taxes on whiskey and tobacco.
