This expression is the nickname of the University of Mississippi, which became famous in the 1960 because of the fight for equal rights for blacks. In 1961, the application of James Meredith to the University of Mississippi caused a firestorm of protest. In spite of this strong protests, on October 2, 1962, James Meredith was the first African American accepted by the University of Mississippi. His attendance provoked riots. Because of the demonstrations he had to be escorted to class by U.S. marshals and troops. By allowing him to enter the University, the first step to stop segregation in educational institutions was made.