Juliette Hampton Morgan was born on February 21, 1914, in Montgomery, Alabama. She was the only child of Frank and Lila Bess Olin Morgan. Juliette attended the University of Alabama, where she earned a degree in both English literature and political science in 1934. She continued her education, obtaining a master's degree in English in 1935.
Juliette began her career as a public school teacher in Montgomery before transitioning to a role as a reference librarian at Montgomery's Carnegie Library in 1942. She quickly rose through the ranks and was eventually appointed as the director of research at the Montgomery Public Library.
Juliette was deeply committed to social justice and civil rights. She became known for her anti-segregationist campaign during the integration of Alabama in the 1950s. Juliette was a vocal supporter of the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955, following the arrest of Rosa Parks for refusing to give up her seat on a bus. She wrote a letter to the Montgomery Advertiser praising Parks and comparing her to Mahatma Gandhi.
Juliette's activism made her a target of harassment and threats. She faced significant backlash from white supremacists and segregationists in Montgomery. Despite the pressure and danger she faced, Juliette continued to speak out against injustice and advocate for equality.
Unfortunately, the relentless harassment took a toll on Juliette's mental health. In 1957, she tragically died by suicide. Her death was a devastating loss for the civil rights movement and for those who knew her. Juliette's untimely passing served as a stark reminder of the high personal cost of fighting for justice in a deeply divided and hostile environment.
Juliette Hampton Morgan's legacy lives on in the memory of those who knew her and in the impact she made during her lifetime. Her courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to social justice continue to inspire activists and advocates today. Juliette's contributions to the civil rights movement in Alabama and beyond will never be forgotten.
Juliette Hampton Morgan may have faced immense challenges and ultimately met a tragic end, but her legacy as a librarian and civil rights activist endures as a testament to her remarkable spirit and unwavering dedication to the fight for equality and justice for all.