Ruby Bridges was an American civil rights activist who, at the age of six, became the first African American child to desegregate an elementary school in the South. Born on September 8, 1954, in Tylertown, Mississippi, Bridges was raised in a family of sharecroppers and was one of the youngest participants in the Civil Rights Movement.

In 1960, the Federal court ordered the desegregation of New Orleans public schools, and Bridges was one of several African American children selected to attend formerly all-white schools. On November 14, 1960, Bridges walked into William Frantz Elementary School, accompanied by federal marshals, to begin her first day of first grade. She was met by angry white protestors who jeered and threatened her as she entered the school. Despite the hostile atmosphere, Bridges persevered and continued to attend William Frantz every day, escorted by federal marshals.

Ruby Bridges' bravery and determination inspired people around the country and helped to pave the way for the end of segregation in public schools. Her story was later immortalized in the iconic painting "The Problem We All Live With" by Norman Rockwell, which depicts Bridges walking to school surrounded by federal marshals.

Despite the challenges she faced, Bridges never lost her love of learning and went on to graduate from high school. She then attended a local community college and worked as a travel agent for several years. In 1999, Bridges founded the Ruby Bridges Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting unity, respect, and the removal of barriers to equality. Through her foundation, she has worked to promote the values of tolerance and understanding, and to provide educational opportunities for children.

Ruby Bridges' legacy continues to inspire people around the world. She serves as a symbol of hope and courage, and her story is a testament to the power of one person to make a difference. Her bravery and determination helped to break down barriers and paved the way for greater equality and justice for all people, regardless of race.

In conclusion, Ruby Bridges was a trailblazer and a hero of the Civil Rights Movement. At the age of six, she became the first African American child to desegregate an elementary school in the South, despite facing hostility and danger. Her bravery and determination inspired people around the country and helped to pave the way for the end of segregation in public schools. Her legacy continues to inspire people today, and her story is a testament to the power of one person to make a difference.