Final answer:
Media coverage shaped public opinion about the civil rights movement through connecting people to the issue of segregation, exposing them to the violent reactions faced by activists, and highlighting the opposition through hate speech.
Step-by-step explanation:
Media coverage played a significant role in shaping public opinion about the civil rights movement. Firstly, the media connected the world to the problems of segregation, allowing people across the country to understand the injustices faced by African Americans. Secondly, through their coverage, the media shocked the American public by showing "open hatred" and violence directed at civil rights activists, which evoked a strong emotional response from viewers. Lastly, the media aired the "hate speech" uttered by some who opposed civil rights, providing insight into the opposition faced by the movement.
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