What was the purpose of the Kerner Commission?

The Kerner Commission, officially known as the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, was established in 1967 in response to the widespread race riots that occurred in several urban areas across the United States. The purpose of the commission was to study these riots and their underlying causes, which were rooted in systemic issues such as racism, poverty, and social inequality.

Through their investigations and findings, the Commission concluded that the nation was moving toward two separate societies—one white and one black—and that this division was fueled by deep-seated racial tensions and economic disparities. The report it produced emphasized the need for federal intervention and policy changes to address these issues to prevent future unrest and help promote social harmony.

Therefore, the accurate understanding of the Kerner Commission's purpose lies in its focus on analyzing race relations and the specific social conditions that led to the riots, which was a significant factor in shaping subsequent civil rights policies and discussions in the United States.