The race riot in Paterson, New Jersey, on August 11, 1964, was part of a series of racial disturbances that erupted across the United States during the summer of 1964. The riot in Paterson was triggered by racial tensions in the city, which had a large African American population. The unrest was sparked by accusations of police brutality and dissatisfaction with the social and economic conditions that black residents were facing.

Paterson had experienced ongoing issues of racial discrimination, unemployment, and poverty, which were compounded by a strained relationship between the local police and the black community. These tensions escalated when an incident involving police officers allegedly brutalizing a black man sparked violent protests.

The riot resulted in several days of unrest, with rioters clashing with police, looting, and setting fires. It was one of the many race riots in the summer of 1964, reflecting the broader national struggles around civil rights, racial inequality, and tensions between African American communities and law enforcement.

The events of that summer, including the Paterson riot, were precursors to the larger urban uprisings that would unfold in later years, such as the 1965 Watts riots in Los Angeles. These riots underscored the growing demand for civil rights reforms and the deep-seated issues of racial injustice in America.