How was attitude of many southern whites?

Many southern whites historically held a deeply entrenched attitude of racial superiority, stemming from a social and economic system that valued white supremacy. This mindset was reinforced by cultural norms, segregation laws, and a desire to maintain control over the social hierarchy, particularly during the Jim Crow era. Resistance to civil rights movements further exemplified this attitude, as many southern whites opposed efforts to achieve racial equality, often resorting to violence and intimidation. Overall, this pervasive mindset significantly impacted societal dynamics and the struggle for civil rights in the South.