How did Matthew J. Perry affect the movement for civil rights in South Carolina? Perry realized the Democrats were most likely to support civil rights, and he was
responsible for African American support of that party.
As a member of the state's legislature, Perry was able to convince fellow
lawmakers of the need for change in South Carolina.
Perry's work was instrumental in bringing about the integration of public
schools, parks, and other public places in the state.
Perry's dedication the legal profession was a major factor in the rise of civil
rights court cases in South Carolina.