Little Rock Nine Properly Formatted Works Cited Page For Research Paper

Creating a properly formatted works cited page is a crucial step in any research paper, ensuring that you give credit to the sources you've consulted and avoid plagiarism. For a research paper focusing on the Little Rock Nine, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, a well-structured works cited page is essential for showcasing the depth of your research and the credibility of your arguments. This article will guide you through the process of creating a works cited page, adhering to MLA (Modern Language Association) format, and provide five exemplary sources to support your research on the Little Rock Nine. Understanding the historical context, the individuals involved, and the broader implications of this event requires consulting a variety of sources, including books, articles, documentaries, and primary documents. A meticulously crafted works cited page not only demonstrates academic integrity but also allows readers to explore your sources and delve further into this significant chapter of American history. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to ensure your research paper on the Little Rock Nine is both academically sound and historically accurate.

A works cited page serves as a comprehensive list of all the sources you have directly referenced within your research paper. It's more than just a formality; it's a testament to your scholarly integrity and a valuable resource for your readers. By meticulously documenting your sources, you provide clear evidence of the foundation upon which your research is built. This transparency allows your audience to trace your line of reasoning, verify the accuracy of your information, and explore the topic further on their own. In the context of researching the Little Rock Nine, a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement, a well-constructed works cited page is particularly crucial. This historical episode is rich with diverse perspectives, interpretations, and primary source materials. Citing your sources accurately allows you to navigate these complexities with clarity and precision. Moreover, it demonstrates your commitment to engaging with the existing scholarship on the topic, acknowledging the contributions of historians, journalists, and activists who have previously examined the Little Rock Nine. A strong works cited page not only enhances the credibility of your research but also positions you as a thoughtful and responsible scholar, contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding this critical moment in American history. It is also a way to avoid plagiarism, which is a serious academic offense. Plagiarism can lead to failing grades, expulsion from school, and damage to your reputation.

Properly formatting your works cited page is essential for academic credibility and clarity. The Modern Language Association (MLA) format is commonly used in humanities disciplines, including history, and provides a standardized structure for listing sources. Adhering to these guidelines ensures consistency and allows readers to easily locate the sources you've consulted. Begin your works cited page on a separate page at the end of your research paper. The title, "Works Cited," should be centered at the top of the page, without any bolding, underlining, or quotation marks. Each entry on the page should follow a specific format, depending on the type of source. For books, include the author's name, title of the book, publisher, and publication year. For journal articles, include the author's name, title of the article, title of the journal, volume and issue number, publication year, and page range. For online sources, include the author's name, title of the page, website name, publication date or date of access, and URL. All entries should be alphabetized by the author's last name. If a source has no author, alphabetize it by the first significant word in the title. The entire works cited page should be double-spaced, with a hanging indent for each entry. A hanging indent means that the first line of each entry is flush with the left margin, and subsequent lines are indented by half an inch. This format helps to visually distinguish each entry and makes it easier for readers to navigate the list. Consistent and accurate formatting of your works cited page demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to academic rigor, enhancing the overall quality of your research paper.

When researching the Little Rock Nine, it's crucial to consult a variety of sources to gain a comprehensive understanding of this historical event. These sources can include books, articles, documentaries, and primary documents, each offering unique perspectives and insights. High-quality sources provide credible and reliable information, allowing you to build a strong foundation for your research paper. Primary sources, such as firsthand accounts, letters, and government documents, offer direct perspectives from individuals involved in the events. Secondary sources, such as scholarly articles and books, provide analysis and interpretation of the events based on research and evidence. A mix of both primary and secondary sources will enrich your understanding and strengthen your arguments. To ensure the accuracy and validity of your research, it's essential to evaluate the sources critically. Consider the author's credentials, the publisher's reputation, and the evidence presented in the source. Cross-referencing information across multiple sources can help you identify any biases or inconsistencies. Consulting a variety of sources also allows you to explore different viewpoints and interpretations of the Little Rock Nine, contributing to a more nuanced and well-rounded research paper. Here are five exemplary sources that can provide valuable information for your research on the Little Rock Nine:

1. Bates, Daisy. The Long Shadow of Little Rock: A Memoir. University of Arkansas Press, 1986.
2. Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle for Little Rock. Washington Square Books, 1994.
3. Huckaby, Elizabeth. Crisis at Central High: Little Rock, 1957. Louisiana State University Press, 1980.
4. Jacoway, Elizabeth, and C. Fred Williams, editors. Understanding the Little Rock Crisis: An Exercise in Remembrance and Reconciliation. University of Arkansas Press, 1999.
5. PBS. Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years. Episode 2, "Fighting Back 1957-1962." Blackside, 1987.

Delving into each of the recommended sources will provide a multi-faceted understanding of the Little Rock Nine and the broader context of the Civil Rights Movement. These sources range from firsthand accounts to scholarly analyses, offering diverse perspectives on this pivotal historical event. Each source contributes unique insights and evidence that can enrich your research paper and strengthen your arguments. Let's explore each source in detail:

1. Bates, Daisy. The Long Shadow of Little Rock: A Memoir. University of Arkansas Press, 1986.

*Daisy Bates*, the president of the NAACP chapter in Little Rock, played a pivotal role in the Little Rock Crisis. Her memoir, ***The Long Shadow of Little Rock***, is an invaluable primary source that provides firsthand insights into the events surrounding the integration of Central High School. Bates offers a personal and detailed account of the challenges, threats, and triumphs experienced by the Little Rock Nine. She chronicles the daily struggles of the students, the political maneuvering of Governor Orval Faubus, and the community's response to the crisis. Her memoir provides a critical perspective on the strategies employed by the NAACP, the role of the federal government, and the resilience of the students and their families. This source is essential for understanding the complex dynamics of the Little Rock Crisis and the courage of those who fought for integration. Bates's unique position as an activist and community leader gives her account a powerful and authoritative voice, making it a cornerstone of any research on this topic. Her narrative captures the emotional and social toll of the crisis, highlighting the human dimension of the Civil Rights Movement.

2. Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle for Little Rock. Washington Square Books, 1994.

*Melba Pattillo Beals* was one of the *Little Rock Nine*, and her memoir, ***Warriors Don't Cry***, offers a deeply personal and poignant account of her experiences as a teenager integrating Central High School. Her narrative provides a vivid picture of the daily harassment, threats, and violence faced by the students. Beals recounts the emotional toll of navigating a hostile environment, the constant fear for her safety, and the support she received from her family and community. Her memoir is a powerful testament to the courage and resilience of the Little Rock Nine and their unwavering commitment to education and equality. Beals's perspective as a young African American girl thrust into the national spotlight provides a unique lens through which to view the Civil Rights Movement. She captures the personal sacrifices and emotional challenges involved in fighting for social change. ***Warriors Don't Cry*** is an essential primary source for understanding the human impact of the Little Rock Crisis and the transformative power of individual courage.

3. Huckaby, Elizabeth. Crisis at Central High: Little Rock, 1957. Louisiana State University Press, 1980.

*Elizabeth Huckaby*, the vice principal of Central High School during the crisis, provides a unique insider's perspective in her book, ***Crisis at Central High: Little Rock, 1957***. Her diary entries, compiled into this book, offer a detailed day-by-day account of the events unfolding at the school. Huckaby's narrative captures the escalating tensions, the political maneuvering, and the challenges faced by the administration in maintaining order and protecting the students. Her perspective provides valuable insights into the internal dynamics of the school, the impact of the crisis on teachers and staff, and the broader community's response. Huckaby's account is particularly valuable for understanding the logistical and administrative challenges of integrating a school in the face of intense resistance. She documents the daily struggles to maintain a safe and educational environment for all students, highlighting the complexities of implementing desegregation policies. ***Crisis at Central High*** is an essential primary source for researchers seeking a comprehensive understanding of the Little Rock Crisis from an administrative viewpoint.

4. Jacoway, Elizabeth, and C. Fred Williams, editors. Understanding the Little Rock Crisis: An Exercise in Remembrance and Reconciliation. University of Arkansas Press, 1999.

*Understanding the Little Rock Crisis: An Exercise in Remembrance and Reconciliation*, edited by *Elizabeth Jacoway* and *C. Fred Williams*, is a collection of essays and reflections from various perspectives on the Little Rock Crisis. This anthology brings together historians, activists, and community members to offer a multifaceted analysis of the events, their historical context, and their lasting impact. The essays explore various aspects of the crisis, including the political climate, the role of the media, the experiences of the students, and the efforts toward reconciliation. This collection is valuable for understanding the diverse interpretations of the Little Rock Crisis and the ongoing efforts to come to terms with its legacy. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the historical significance of the Little Rock Nine and its continued relevance in discussions of race, education, and social justice. ***Understanding the Little Rock Crisis*** is an essential resource for researchers seeking a broad and nuanced understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.

5. PBS. Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years. Episode 2, "Fighting Back 1957-1962." Blackside, 1987.

*Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years* is a landmark documentary series that provides a comprehensive overview of the Civil Rights Movement. Episode 2, ***Fighting Back 1957-1962***, focuses specifically on the Little Rock Crisis and its place within the broader struggle for civil rights. The documentary features archival footage, interviews with key figures, and historical analysis, offering a compelling narrative of the events. This episode is valuable for understanding the national context of the Little Rock Crisis, the political dynamics at play, and the long-term impact of the events. The documentary provides a visual and historical context that complements written sources, allowing viewers to engage with the material in a dynamic way. ***Eyes on the Prize*** is an essential resource for researchers seeking a comprehensive understanding of the Civil Rights Movement and the Little Rock Crisis.

To ensure your works cited page is properly formatted and meets academic standards, follow these step-by-step instructions. Consistent adherence to these guidelines will enhance the credibility of your research paper and demonstrate your commitment to scholarly integrity. First, begin your works cited page on a new page at the end of your research paper. Center the title, "Works Cited," at the top of the page without any bolding, underlining, or quotation marks. Next, arrange your entries alphabetically by the author's last name. If a source has no author, alphabetize it by the first significant word in the title (excluding articles like "A," "An," or "The"). Each entry should follow the appropriate MLA format for the specific type of source. For books, include the author's name, title of the book, publisher, and publication year. For journal articles, include the author's name, title of the article, title of the journal, volume and issue number, publication year, and page range. For online sources, include the author's name, title of the page, website name, publication date or date of access, and URL. The entire works cited page should be double-spaced, with a hanging indent for each entry. A hanging indent means that the first line of each entry is flush with the left margin, and subsequent lines are indented by half an inch. This format helps to visually distinguish each entry and makes it easier for readers to navigate the list. Double-check each entry for accuracy and completeness, ensuring that all required information is included and properly formatted. A meticulously crafted works cited page not only avoids plagiarism but also enhances the overall quality and credibility of your research paper.

Here is a sample works cited page formatted according to MLA guidelines, using the five sources discussed earlier. This example serves as a practical guide to help you format your own works cited page for your research paper on the Little Rock Nine. This sample demonstrates the proper formatting for different types of sources, including books and documentaries, and illustrates the use of hanging indents and alphabetical order. Use this as a template to ensure your works cited page is accurate, consistent, and professionally presented.

Works Cited

Bates, Daisy. The Long Shadow of Little Rock: A Memoir. University of Arkansas Press, 1986.

Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle for Little Rock. Washington Square Books, 1994.

Huckaby, Elizabeth. Crisis at Central High: Little Rock, 1957. Louisiana State University Press, 1980.

Jacoway, Elizabeth, and C. Fred Williams, editors. Understanding the Little Rock Crisis: An Exercise in Remembrance and Reconciliation. University of Arkansas Press, 1999.

PBS. Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years. Episode 2, "Fighting Back 1957-1962." Blackside, 1987.

Creating a properly formatted works cited page is an essential component of any research paper, especially when delving into significant historical events like the Little Rock Nine. This article has provided a comprehensive guide to crafting an effective works cited page, highlighting the importance of acknowledging sources, adhering to MLA format, and selecting credible resources. The five exemplary sources discussed offer a rich foundation for research on the Little Rock Nine, providing diverse perspectives and insights into this pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing the sample works cited page, you can ensure that your research paper is both academically sound and ethically responsible. A well-crafted works cited page not only strengthens the credibility of your research but also allows readers to explore your sources and deepen their understanding of the topic. Remember, meticulous attention to detail in your citations demonstrates your commitment to scholarly integrity and enhances the overall quality of your work. As you continue your research on the Little Rock Nine, remember that each source contributes to a larger narrative, and a properly formatted works cited page is the key to weaving those narratives together effectively. This guide aims to empower you with the tools and knowledge necessary to produce a research paper that is both informative and academically rigorous.