The children of Great Faith Elementary do not receive an education equal to those of Jefferson Davis Elementary. Great Faith students endure poor conditions, outdated textbooks, and lack of transportation, while Jefferson Davis students have new supplies, buses, and better facilities. Despite these hardships, dedicated teachers at Great Faith strive to provide the best education possible under the circumstances.

Sam Tatum was tarred and feathered for accusing Mr. Jim Lee Barnett, a white store owner, of overcharging him. Tatum, an African-American, challenged the bill, asserting he had not ordered all the items listed. This act of defiance against a white man was deemed "uppity" and led to his punishment by the night men, or Ku Klux Klan, who aimed to maintain racial hierarchies and intimidate the black community.

Mama takes her children to see the Berrys to illustrate the grave dangers African Americans face in the racist society of the 1930s South. Mr. Berry's severe injuries, inflicted by white men who attacked him and his nephew, demonstrate the brutal consequences of racial violence. This visit aims to teach the children about the harsh realities and injustices they must navigate, balancing their anger with practical caution for survival.

Papa uses the fig, oak, and walnut trees to teach a lesson about perseverance and resilience. The fig tree, though smaller and surrounded by larger trees, thrives because its roots run deep. It symbolizes the Logan family, who, despite being overshadowed by more powerful families, continue to flourish and "bear good fruit" by not giving up. This metaphor encourages the Logans to persist in their struggles for justice and equality.

Cassie is angry and hurt upon learning her school's books were discarded by the state because of their poor condition. She tries to reason with Miss Crocker, the teacher, by explaining the offensive language used in the books. However, Miss Crocker dismisses her concerns and punishes both Cassie and her brother, Little Man. Later, Cassie plans to explain the situation to her mother, witnessing her mother's quiet defiance against Miss Crocker's stance.

Stacey's relationships with Jeremy and T.J. contrast sharply. T.J. is manipulative and selfish, tricking Stacey into giving away his coat, which T.J. then boasts about. In contrast, Jeremy is generous, giving Stacey a handmade flute and visiting despite familial disapproval. Although Jeremy is a genuine friend, racial tensions in Mississippi make such friendships risky. Papa advises Stacey against pursuing a friendship with Jeremy, fearing societal repercussions despite Jeremy's sincerity.

Cassie Logan's relationship with Lillian Jean in "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" highlights the pervasive racism in the South and symbolizes the struggle against prejudice. Cassie, taught by her family to value pride and courage, refuses to accept racist treatment. Her conflict with Lillian Jean, who embodies learned racism, shows Cassie's determination to challenge unjust systems. This relationship represents hope for future generations to stand against discrimination and seek freedom and fairness.

Mama's warning in "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" reflects the harsh realities of racism in the Deep South during the Great Depression. Her statement, "one day we'll have to pay for it," refers to the potential consequences of Uncle Hammer's defiance against racial norms. This implies that any act challenging the oppressive status quo could lead to future repercussions. The phrase "one day" highlights both hope for change and the looming threat of retribution in a racially charged society.

In chapters 4-5 of "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry," landowners and storekeepers exploit sharecroppers by maintaining a system that traps them in perpetual debt and limits their economic freedom. Sharecroppers are forced into a cashless economy where they must buy goods on credit from the landowner's chosen stores, often at inflated prices. This system ensures that any profits made by sharecroppers return to the landowners, preventing them from advancing financially.

Cassie sees her "place" in the world differently than others might in Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. While she is a black girl in a racist society and others try to put her down, her parents' strong example and her own belief in her worthiness help her to maintain her confidence and pride.