Final answer:
The Little Rock Nine were instrumental in challenging segregation by integrating a public school in Arkansas, contributing to the progress of the Civil Rights Movement and altering national perception on segregation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Little Rock Nine significantly altered the course of the United States' Civil Rights Movement. They helped advance the movement by challenging segregation in public schools, as they were nine African American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School after winning a court case. In addition to changing some Americans’ views on segregation, they also played a key role in helping African Americans desegregate public schools in the South. Their courage and determination set the stage for subsequent civil rights actions and highlighted the need for federal enforcement of integration.
Although they did not create the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the actions of the Little Rock Nine contributed to the momentum of the civil rights activities during that period and propelled the movement further into the national consciousness.