IB History Higher Level (HL) Practice Exam

The event that occurred at Kent State on May 4, 1970, was indeed when the Ohio National Guard opened fire on demonstrators. This tragic incident is a crucial moment in American history as it marked a significant clash between protesters and government forces during a period of intense anti-Vietnam War sentiment.

On that day, students were protesting against the U.S. invasion of Cambodia, part of the broader context of opposition to the Vietnam War. The National Guard was called in as tensions escalated, and during the protest, Guardsmen fired into a crowd, resulting in the deaths of four students and injuries to nine others. This event highlighted the deep divisions within the United States over the war and led to national outrage and condemnation. It served as a galvanizing moment for the anti-war movement, prompting more protests and increasing public scrutiny of government policies regarding Vietnam.

The resonance of this incident continues to be felt today, symbolizing the conflict between authority and dissent, and raising questions about civil liberties and the right to protest. This makes it a pivotal point in the history of civil rights and political activism in the United States.