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This Day in Arkansas History

November 10, 1943

In a battle to take Rome near Mignano, Italy, during World War II, Arkansas native Maurice Lee “Footsie” Britt led his small company in a counterattack opposing approximately 100 German soldiers. Without the repulse of this attack, his battalion would have been isolated and his company destroyed. During this fierce battle, Britt received a bullet wound in his side while his chest, face, and hands were covered with wounds caused by grenades, yet he still managed to throw thirty-two hand grenades. His bold and aggressive actions against the Germans were successful and allowed several captured Americans to escape. For his military gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty, he received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

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Lost Year Student

The 1958-59 school year, during which all of the Little Rock (Pulaski County) high schools were closed in an attempt to prevent desegregation, is commonly referred to as the Lost Year. For the entire school year, 3,665 students were denied the opportunity to attend their local schools. In an attempt to lessen the damage caused by lost time, three local commercial television stations briefly broadcast lessons taught by fifteen white teachers. For a few weeks, students such as the one shown here were able to continue their education in this manner.

 

The 1958-59 school year, during which all of the Little Rock (Pulaski County) high schools were closed in an attempt to prevent desegregation, is commonly referred to as the Lost Year. For the entire school year, 3,665 students were denied the opportunity to attend their local schools. In an attempt to lessen the damage caused by lost time, three local commercial television stations briefly broadcast lessons taught by fifteen white teachers. For a few weeks, students such as the one shown here were able to continue their education in this manner.

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About the Encyclopedia

The CALS Encyclopedia of Arkansas is a free, authoritative source of information about the rich history, geography, and culture of Arkansas. It is updated regularly to ensure the people of Arkansas have an accurate and accessible resource to explore our heritage. We invite you to browse our text entries and media galleries to learn more about the people, places, events, legends, and lore of the 25th state. We are continually adding new entries, photographs, maps, videos, and audio files, so check back frequently to see what’s new.

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