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Selma, AL

Frequently asked questions

Selma, AL

Selma is a city in and the county seat of Dallas County, in the Black Belt region of south central Alabama and extending to the west. About 80% of the population is African-American.

Selma was a trading center and market town during the antebellum years of King Cotton in the South. It was also an important armaments-manufacturing and iron shipbuilding center for the Confederacy during the Civil War, surrounded by miles of earthen fortifications. The Confederate forces were defeated during the Battle of Selma, in the final full month of the war.

In modern times, the city is best known for the 1960s civil rights movement and the Selma to Montgomery marches, beginning with "Bloody Sunday" in 1965 and ending with 25,000 people entering Montgomery at the end of the last march to press for voting rights. This activism generated national attention for social justice and that summer, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed by Congress to authorize federal oversight and enforcement of constitutional rights of all American citizens.

Selma, Alabama, is a city with a diverse economic landscape, showcasing its economic resilience. Major industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and agriculture play pivotal roles in contributing to the local economy. The city's strategic location along major transportation routes has fostered robust trade and commerce. Selma's historic downtown area adds to its unique character, featuring a variety of small businesses, shops, and restaurants for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Selma places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with multiple healthcare facilities serving the community. A prominent healthcare provider in the city is the Vaughan Regional Medical Center, offering a comprehensive range of medical services to residents. Additionally, Selma's proximity to natural resources provides opportunities for outdoor activities, promoting a healthy lifestyle. The city also offers amazing wellness centers such as the Set in a Space of Bliss and Beauty, Body By Danyell is a spectacular oasis of calm located in Selma, AL. In our facility, we aim to deliver the ultimate wellness experience that gives you a small break of tranquility from the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day lives. Whether you exercise every day or you’ve never stepped into a gym before, In Shape Fitness can help shape the new you. FYZICAL South Selma is a medical and scientific-based physical therapy and fitness organization with a broad range of expertise. At Selma Health and Rehab, they pride themselves on partnering with the local communities to better meet your Short-Term Rehabilitation, Long-Term Care, and Respite Care needs. 

Top Sites in Selma, AL are Edmund Pettus Bridge, Old Depot Museum, National Voting Rights Museum and Institute.

Population: 17,971 (2020). ZIP code: 36701. Area code: 334. Elevation: 135 ft (41 m). Incorporated: 1820. Area: 14.40 sq mi (37.30 km2).

FAQs

What is Selma, AL famous for?

Selma is home to the largest contiguous historic district in the State of Alabama. The city is best known for the 1960s Selma Voting Rights Movement and the Selma to Montgomery marches, beginning with “Bloody Sunday” in March 1965 and ending with 25,000 people entering Montgomery at the end of the last march to press for voting rights. This activism generated national attention to social justice and that summer, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed by Congress to authorize federal oversight and enforcement of constitutional rights of all citizens.

What happened in Selma, AL?

Fifty years ago, on March 7, 1965, hundreds of people gathered in Selma, Alabama to march to the capital city of Montgomery. They marched to ensure that African Americans could exercise their constitutional right to vote — even in the face of a segregationist system that wanted to make it impossible. But the marchers didn't stop. Two days later, Dr. Martin Luther King led roughly 2,500 people back to the Pettus Bridge before turning the marchers around — obeying a court order that prevented them from making the full march.

Why is Selma, AL called Selma?

Selma isn't a documentary about Martin Luther King Jr. It's called Selma because of the famous "Bloody Sunday" march on March 7, 1965, in Selma, Alabama. Six hundred marchers gathered and marched to Montgomery, facing the threat of violent police. The film doesn't just focus on Martin Luther King Jr. It's about the town. It's about the people, their bravery and selflessness. It's about their coming together and fighting for what they believed in justice for each other.

Sources

City of Selma

Wikipedia

Huffpost

Obama White House

Selma-AL

Edmund Pettus Bridge

Old Depot Museum

National Voting Rights Museum and Institute

Vaughan Regional Medical Center

Body By Danyell

In Shape Fitness

FYZICAL South Selma

Selma Health and Rehab

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