At a pivotal moment in American history, participants in the civil rights movement endured great adversity, displaying great courage in the face of malicious mockery from those who wanted their oppression. . Each of them sought to improve the world around them by demanding racial equality and thereby developing a huge following of like-minded individuals. [make the link between the past and the present]. The desire for change and the active promotion of ideas fuels social change, which leaves others with the responsibility to fully understand their own beliefs and make the important choice whether or not to follow the reformer's ideas [WORDY]. Even the simplest idea can become the foundation of an entire social revolution. [Phrase about DESIRE] King succeeded because of his desire – his dream – but he was not the only one who aspired to equality. A strong indicator of others' desire for change is summed up in a statement made by Willie Morris, a novelist, who, when asked if he would return to America, replied: "No...I want my children to grow up in as human beings” (quoted in Meacham 3). This is a simple but illuminating statement that shows the strong beliefs of many supporters and the painful reality of the civil rights movement. The assertion of individual rights is even more powerful than Morris's sentiments. ). Declaring that one has rights and demanding that society grant them is powerful because it shows the individual's commitment to seeking personal and social justice that meets their desire for change. It takes courage to promote one's beliefs because of... .. middle of paper ......cham. New York: Random House, 2003. 209-214. Print. Halberstam, David. “The Second Coming of Martin Luther King.” Voices in Our Blood: America's Finest on the Civil Rights Movement. By Jon Meacham. New York: Random House, 2003. 370-388. Print.Haley, Alex. “An Interview with Malcolm X.” Voices in Our Blood: America's Finest on the Civil Rights Movement. By Jon Meacham. New York: Random House, 2003. 218-214. Print.Meacham, Jon. Voices in Our Blood: America's Finest on the Civil Rights Movement. New York: Random House, 2003. Print. Trillin, Calvin. “State Secrets”. Voices in Our Blood: America's Finest on the Civil Rights Movement. By Jon Meacham. New York: Random House, 2003. 499-516. Print.Percy, Walker. “Mississippi: the fallen paradise.” Voices in Our Blood: America's Finest on the Civil Rights Movement. By Jon Meacham. New York: Random House, 2003. 318-328. Print.