State any three important features of civil rights movement of the U...
The Civil Rights Movement of the USA (1954-1968)
The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was a significant social and political movement that aimed to secure equal rights and end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. Spanning from 1954 to 1968, this movement brought about lasting changes in American society. Here are three important features of the Civil Rights Movement during this period:
1. Brown v. Board of Education and the End of Legal SegregationThe landmark Supreme Court case, Brown v. Board of Education, played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1954, the Court ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, overturning the "separate but equal" doctrine established by Plessy v. Ferguson in 1896. This decision marked a significant victory for the movement and laid the foundation for challenging segregation in other areas of society.
2. Nonviolent Protests and Civil DisobedienceNonviolent protests and civil disobedience were key strategies employed by civil rights activists during this era. Inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and others organized and participated in nonviolent demonstrations, sit-ins, freedom rides, and marches. These actions aimed to draw attention to the injustices faced by African Americans and to provoke a response from the government and the public. The use of nonviolence as a tactic helped to garner sympathy and support from both the American public and the international community.
3. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965Two pivotal pieces of legislation were passed during this period, which significantly advanced the cause of civil rights. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It outlawed segregation in public facilities and employment practices and established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to overcome barriers that prevented African Americans from exercising their right to vote. It outlawed discriminatory voting practices such as literacy tests and the intimidation of voters.
These three features of the Civil Rights Movement of the USA during 1954-1968 highlight the important milestones and strategies of the movement. Through legal victories, nonviolent protests, and groundbreaking legislation, the movement challenged racial discrimination and laid the groundwork for greater equality and justice in American society.