Why was the zoot suit riots important?

Answer 1

The Zoot Suit Riots were a series of riots in 1943 during World War II that broke out in Los Angeles, California, between white sailors and Marines stationed in the city and Latino youths, who were recognizable by the zoot suits they favored. The riot was caused become of tensions between Latinos and whiteshey favored.

Answer 2

Due to war time rationing, zoot suits and other frivolous commodities were banned. Many people felt that this was an infringement on one's rights.

On June 3, 1943, In protest, a group of Naval personnel on shore leave were attacked by Hispanic pachucos. In retaliation, a group made up of over 200 sailors stormed the Mexican-American community in East Los Angeles, beating & stripping the zoot suiters of their clothing. Nine sailors were arrested, but none were charged with any crime.

The following nights June 4 & 5, various military personnel ( Army & Marine) continued the attack, backed (unofficially) by the Los Angeles Police Department.

Answer 3

came from teenage rebellion, Immigration and assimilation, race relations, World War II conflicts between law enforcement and minority groups, and the bad history of Mexicans in America.

Answer 4

See the link.