* The brutality of the police: The footage showed white police officers, with blatant disregard for the law and human decency, attacking peaceful protestors with tear gas, billy clubs, and even horses. The violence was shockingly unprovoked and seemingly random, exposing the deep-seated racism and prejudice that existed in the South.
* The sheer number of protestors: The marches in Selma were massive, with thousands of people participating. This demonstrated the widespread support for voting rights and the determination of African Americans to fight for equality.
* The stark contrast to the "ideal" America: The images of the marches and the violence against protestors contrasted sharply with the image of America as a democratic and just nation. The footage challenged the narrative of a colorblind society and brought the reality of racial discrimination to the forefront of national attention.
* The power of television: Television was still a relatively new medium in the 1960s, and its ability to broadcast live events had a powerful impact. Seeing the events in Selma unfold on their screens brought the struggle for civil rights into Americans' living rooms, creating a sense of immediacy and personal connection to the issue.
The Selma marches and the televised coverage of the violence played a crucial role in shifting public opinion and ultimately led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
It's important to note that while the footage shocked many Americans, there were still many who remained indifferent or even opposed to the civil rights movement. The events in Selma, however, were a turning point in the struggle for racial equality, and they continue to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality.