The first African American to successfully integrate a Southern university was James Meredith. In 1962, he enrolled at the University of Mississippi, a historic event that sparked violent protests and significant social upheaval. His courageous stand against segregation represented a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Federal forces were deployed to ensure his safety during his enrollment, highlighting the deep-rooted racial tensions in the South. Meredith's efforts not only advanced the cause of educational equality but also inspired others to challenge institutional racism across the United States.