-
The first African slaves arrive in Jamestown, Virginia, marking the start of over 200 years of slavery in the U.S. -
During the Civil War (1861-1865), President Abraham Lincoln declares that slaves in *Confederate states are free, signaling the beginning of the end of slavery.
*The Confederate States were a group of 11 Southern states that seceded (left) from the United States in 1860-1861, leading to the American Civil War (1861-1865). They formed their own government, called the Confederate States of America (CSA), because they wanted to keep slavery, which was important to their economy. -
After the Union wins the war, the 13th Amendment officially abolishes slavery in the United States. -
The Supreme Court establishes the “separate but equal” doctrine, making racial segregation legal for decades.
-
The Supreme Court overturns Plessy v. Ferguson, ruling that segregation in public schools is unconstitutional, setting the stage for the Civil Rights Movement.
-
Rosa Parks refuses to give up her bus seat, leading to a year-long boycott that shows the power of peaceful protest.
-
The March on Washington becomes a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement, with MLK calling for racial equality.
-
This law makes racial segregation and discrimination illegal in public places, schools, and workplaces.
-
This law bans literacy tests and other barriers used to stop African Americans from voting, securing their political rights.
-
MLK’s assassination leads to riots and protests, but his legacy continues to inspire the fight for racial justice.
-
African American people still fight racism against them,