Name/Title
The Mighty Generals - A Story of Basketball Champions and Racial Unity in the Deep SouthEntry/Object ID
RG134-14-03Description
In 1970, amid federally mandated desegregation in Greenville, SC, 300 Black students from closed schools were transferred to Wade Hampton High, a predominantly white school named after a Confederate general. Integration was peaceful and symbolized by a handshake between student body presidents, later featured in Newsweek. The school’s basketball team, the “Mighty Generals,” became a symbol of racial unity after adding five Black players, including standout Clyde Mayes. The newly integrated team won back-to-back state championships in 1970 and 1971. Basketball became a bridge across racial divides, teaching players they were more alike than different and uniting the community.Collection
Proceedings and PapersCopyright
Copyright Holder
Greenville Country Historical SocietyCopyright Details
Exclusive License
