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Brown v. Board of Education
The Supreme Court declared that racial segregation in public schools was a violation. This landmark ruling overturned the "separate but equal" belief, driving the momentum of ending racial segregation and civil rights activism across the U.S.
It provided legal validation and momentum for challenging segregation laws nationwide. -
Montgomery Bus Boycott
African Americans refused to ride city buses to protest segregated seating. The movement was led by Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., this boycott lasted over a year and ended with a Supreme Court ruling that segregation on public buses was unconstitutional.
It demonstrated the power of harmless protest and mass action, and exciting the civil rights movement. -
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
Over 250,000 people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial to demand civil and economic rights for African Americans. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, giving support for civil rights legislation.
This contributed to the Civil Rights movement by becoming a symbol of hope and moral purpose to many lives that were effected by all the segregation and discrimination. -
Civil Rights Act
This complete law overcame segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It was a major legislative victory for the movement.
This law contributed to the Civil Rights movement by legally ending segregation and discrimination against the people. -
Voting Rights Act
This law aimed to remove barriers like literacy tests and poll taxes that prevented African Americans from voting and participating in the choice of their rights.
It contributed to the Civil Rights Act by marking a significant step toward political equality and representation.