At previously all-white Central High in Little Rock, Ark., 1,000 paratroopers are called by President Eisenhower to restore order and escort nine black students. Federal paratroopers escort African American pupils to Central High School in Little Rock, Ark. without trouble. 1,000 paratroopers had been called by President Eisenhower to restore order and escort nine black students safely to class. Sept. 26, 1957.