Apex pre-test unit 4 u. s. government and politics- in what way was the brown v. board of education ruling a reflection of the historical context of the mid-20th century? a. it interpreted the equal protection clause to prohibit segregation at a time when african americans were demanding civil rights. b. it interpreted the due process clause to apply differently to white americans and african americans at a time when racial distinctions were stronger than ever. c. it forced southern states to integrate public facilities at a time when most southern leaders were actively fighting to end racism in the region. d. it empowered state governments to deal with racial segregation at a time when americans were extremely skeptical of increasing federal power.