What was a primary catalyst for the Atlanta Race Riot of 1906?

The primary catalyst for the Atlanta Race Riot of 1906 was job competition. During this period, Atlanta was experiencing significant economic growth, which attracted many people to the city, including a large number of African Americans who were seeking employment opportunities. This influx created tensions between white and black residents, particularly as both groups competed for the same jobs.

The situation was exacerbated by sensationalized reporting in the local newspapers, which fueled racial animosity and incited fears among the white population regarding the success and advancement of black individuals in the workforce. As rumors of violence and racial grievances spread, it led to an outbreak of violence on September 22, 1906, resulting in the tragic riot that left many dead and injured. Understanding the context of job competition helps highlight how economic factors intertwined with racial dynamics to ignite tensions that erupted into violence.