The assassinations of Malcolm X in 1965 and Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 elicited profound reactions across the United States. Each of your options highlights various responses during that time:
A) The Black Panthers were formed to patrol urban streets. - This response is somewhat indirect, as the Black Panther Party was founded in 1966, before King's assassination, in part as a response to the civil rights struggle and the need for protection in urban areas, especially in response to police brutality. However, the sentiments that contributed to their founding were amplified by the climate of violence following these assassinations.
B) There were protests in many neighborhoods. - This is a direct and accurate response, as both assassinations prompted widespread protests, riots, and demonstrations across the nation, especially among African American communities.
C) The idea of civil disobedience became more popular. - While civil disobedience was a significant part of the civil rights movement and was championed by figures like King, the aftermath of the assassinations led more to militant expressions and activism rather than a focus on civil disobedience.
D) Activists organized a march on Washington. - While marches and demonstrations were certainly organized in response to these figures' deaths, the significant March on Washington had already occurred in 1963 before their assassinations.
Given the historical context, the most direct and immediate response to the assassinations of both Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. would be:
B) There were protests in many neighborhoods.
This option best captures the widespread outcry and mobilization among communities in reaction to these tragic events.