Question

In this section, you’ll evaluate an argument and specific claims, identifying false statements and fallacious reasoning.

Recently you’ve read “Letter from Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King, Jr.

Carefully read the following excerpt:

“It is unfortunate that demonstrations are taking place in Birmingham, but it is even more unfortunate that the city's white power structure left the Negro community with no alternative…There can be no gainsaying the fact that racial injustice engulfs this community. Birmingham is probably the most thoroughly segregated city in the United States. Its ugly record of brutality is widely known. Negroes have experienced grossly unjust treatment in the courts. There have been more unsolved bombings of Negro homes and churches in Birmingham than in any other city in the nation. These are the hard, brutal facts of the case.”

What’s Dr. King’s argument in this paragraph?
Question 1 options:

King demands action from local law enforcement regarding the violence towards Black people in Birmingham.


King argues that demonstrations are now necessary in Birmingham because other peaceful options haven't been successful.


King presents several examples showcasing the ineffectiveness of demonstrations.


King provides statistical evidence to prove that Birmingham is fully integrated.

Answer 1

King argues that demonstrations are now necessary in Birmingham because other peaceful options haven't been successful.

He explains that the white power structure left Black residents "no alternative" and supports this by listing segregation, brutality, unjust courts, and unsolved bombings.