The Watts Riots

The Watts Riots were a series of violent protests that erupted in Watts, a neighborhood in Los Angeles, from August 11 to August 17, 1965. Triggered by the arrest of a Black motorist, the riots highlighted deep racial tensions and frustrations over systemic issues like police brutality, poverty, and discrimination. Over six days, the unrest resulted in widespread looting, arson, and clashes with law enforcement, leading to 34 deaths and extensive property damage. The Watts Riots underscored the urgent need for social change and sparked conversations about civil rights and race relations in America.