Question & Answer

What factors contributed to the Watts riots of 1965?

What factors contributed to the Watts riots of 1965? A. Racism against white officers
B. Fear that segregation would end
C. Frustration with the civil rights movement
D. Anger over widespread racism

1 Answer

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Quizzma TeamMay 26, 2025

The correct answer is D. Anger over widespread racism.

The Watts riots of 1965 were primarily fueled by systemic racism and social injustices faced by the African-American community in Los Angeles. Tensions had been building due to discriminatory practices, police brutality, and socioeconomic inequality. When an incident of police harassment sparked outrage, it led to a violent uprising as a manifestation of the community’s deep-seated frustrations and anger over the pervasive racism they experienced.