Civil Rights Movement: A Brief Overview

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was a pivotal moment in history, aiming to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. This movement spanned from the 1950s to the 1960s and involved various strategies and tactics, including protests, boycotts, and legal challenges.

Key Figures

Martin Luther King Jr.: A prominent leader of the movement, known for his nonviolent approach and powerful oratory skills.
Rosa Parks: Often referred to as the "Mother of the Civil Rights Movement," Parks' refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Important Events

Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955-1956): This boycott, sparked by Rosa Parks' arrest, led to the desegregation of the Montgomery bus system.
Brown v. Board of Education (1954): This landmark Supreme Court decision declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional.

Impact

The Civil Rights Movement led to significant legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which aimed to end discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

For more information on the Civil Rights Movement, check out our in-depth guide.

Resources