The Civil Rights Movement
Social movementAbout
The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was a pivotal social movement that sought to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. It built upon centuries of resistance against slavery and segregation, with roots tracing back to the Reconstruction era. Key events included the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sit-ins, Freedom Rides, and marches like the March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. These actions utilized nonviolent civil disobedience to challenge institutionalized racism. The movement achieved significant legislative victories, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These laws outlawed discrimination in public accommodations, employment, and voting. The movement also drew support from influential figures and organizations, such as the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Through these efforts, the Civil Rights Movement transformed American society, ensuring greater equality and legal protections for African Americans.
