Description
This transcript of a June 6, 1973, oral history interview conducted by William Chafe with Ben Smith Jr. primarily documents Smith's recollection of his father's work as superintendent of schools in Greensboro following the Brown v. Board of Education decision. Topics include Smith Sr.'s reasons for selecting the position in Greensboro; what made Greensboro unique; his reputation and personality; community and school board reaction to the Brown decision; threats and retaliation against the Smiths; the three-year delay in school desegregation; Smith Sr.'s objection to the Pearsall Plan; and selection of Phil Weaver as his successor.