Meaning: This quote from Harold Greene, a judge who played a significant role in the integration of the University of Mississippi, captures the urgency and complexity of the legal and logistical challenges faced during this pivotal moment in civil rights history. In this statement, Greene recounts the attorney general's directive to prepare for the integration of the university, highlighting the swift and high-stakes nature of the decision-making process. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context surrounding the integration of the University of Mississippi, the key players involved, and the broader implications of this event in the civil rights movement.

In 1962, the University of Mississippi became a focal point in the struggle for desegregation when James Meredith, an African American student, sought admission to the university. Meredith's application was initially rejected on the grounds of his race, prompting a legal battle that ultimately reached the United States Supreme Court. In a landmark decision, the court ruled in favor of Meredith, affirming his right to enroll at the university. However, the state government, particularly Governor Ross Barnett, vehemently opposed the integration and refused to comply with the court order.

The attorney general mentioned in the quote is likely Robert F. Kennedy, who played a pivotal role in addressing civil rights issues during his tenure in the Kennedy administration. Kennedy was known for his proactive approach to advancing civil rights and often worked closely with key figures such as Judge Harold Greene to navigate the legal and political complexities of desegregation efforts.

The urgency conveyed in the quote reflects the intense pressure and time-sensitive nature of the integration process. The attorney general's call for a memo on potential actions in response to the governor's resistance underscores the strategic and legal considerations that had to be carefully assessed and addressed. This sense of immediacy and the need for comprehensive planning underscore the gravity of the situation and the determination of the federal government to uphold the rule of law and advance civil rights.

Judge Harold Greene, who is credited with playing a crucial role in overseeing the legal aspects of Meredith's enrollment, was part of a team of legal experts and government officials tasked with ensuring the successful integration of the university. His firsthand account provides valuable insight into the behind-the-scenes efforts and challenges faced in confronting entrenched segregationist opposition.

The integration of the University of Mississippi was a watershed moment in the civil rights movement, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the resistance to desegregation in the Jim Crow South. The events surrounding James Meredith's enrollment at the university sparked widespread protests, violence, and a significant federal intervention to enforce the court's ruling. The deployment of federal marshals and the eventual arrival of the U.S. Army to escort Meredith onto campus underscored the monumental nature of this undertaking and the lengths to which the federal government was willing to go to uphold the rule of law and ensure the rights of African American citizens.

In conclusion, the quote by Judge Harold Greene encapsulates the urgency, complexity, and determination that characterized the efforts to integrate the University of Mississippi. It serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role played by individuals such as the attorney general, Robert F. Kennedy, and Judge Greene in confronting institutionalized segregation and advancing the cause of civil rights. The integration of the University of Mississippi stands as a testament to the resilience and perseverance of those who fought for racial equality and justice, and it continues to resonate as a defining moment in American history.