Traveling Around All 48 States β Little Rock ποΈ
Little Rock is the capital of Arkansas and the hometown of former U.S. President Bill Clinton. The Clinton family lived and worked here for several years. π§οΈ The morning started with drizzling rain, but fortunately, it cleared up by noon. This Sunday was Easter β the day celebrating Jesus' resurrection three days after his crucifixion. ποΈ Churches held gatherings in the morning, and American Catholic and Christian families dressed up and attended together. π° Eggs, rabbits, and lilies are the three classic symbols of Easter. Most families display them during the holiday, much like how Chinese families put up couplets and paper-cuttings during Lunar New Year. I passed by a weekend farmersβ market where local vendors sold fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods. π₯¬π The surrounding neighborhood was peaceful and residential. The Arkansas State Capitol and the Old State House stand side by side, creating a striking contrast between old and new. Many people mistake the dojang in the picture below for a Chinese-style building, but itβs actually a Korean dojang. π― One of Little Rockβs most famous landmarks is Little Rock Central High School. π« In 1957, the then-governor of Arkansas refused to allow Black students to enroll. Nine Black high school students persisted, leading to violent protests by white mobs. Eventually, President Eisenhower sent federal troops to escort these students into the school. This event became a major milestone in the fight against racism in the U.S. 60 years have passed, and based on my personal experience in the U.S., although no one dares to openly make discriminatory remarks, there are still subtle β and sometimes not so subtle β instances of unfair treatment toward people of color. Tensions among different racial groups show that racism in American society is not yet completely eradicated. β The Clinton familyβs former home in Little Rock has been sold to new owners and remains a private residence β not a public memorial. π The Clinton Presidential Library, sponsored by Clinton himself, stands in the city. Not sure why there are so many insect sculptures at the entrance, but the surrounding views are lovely. π In the afternoon, I drove to Pinnacle Mountain State Park on the outskirts of the city. ποΈ Itβs a famous hiking destination with two main trails β East Summit and West Summit. Climbing to the top offers sweeping views of the city and the Arkansas River. Unfortunately, it was cloudy, so the lighting wasnβt ideal β the real scenery is much more beautiful than what photos can capture! πΈ #LittleRock #Arkansas #TravelUSA #SoloTravel #RoadTrip #TravelGram #Easter #History
