The Civil Rights Movement: Unwavering Goals, Dynamic Strategies, and Increasing Support

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From the founding of the United States of America, the American people agreed upon essential ideas to live by including unalienable rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. All American citizens were guaranteed these rights, except for the racially discriminated upon black Americans. After the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1864, former slaves were proclaimed free; yet they were exposed to significant discrimination in education, the workplace, and public accommodations. The civil rights movement began in an attempt to end racial discrimination and create a nation in which black Americans had the same opportunities as white Americans. The overall goals of the African American civil rights movement did not change during the 1960s. Instead, the strategies to employ change evolved. In addition, the progressive increase in support received from the federal government and non-black community further advanced the civil rights movement towards its goals. The goals of the African American civil rights movement remained steadfast over the course of the 1960s. The movement’s objectives included the eradication of racial segregation and discrimination. There was a call for Black Americans to organize against their oppressors and demand opportunity (Document E). Desegregation of schools and public facilities was fundamental to establishing equality. Boycotts of public facilities took place in response to discriminatory behaviors. The Montgomery Bus Boycott began after Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white person on a bus. In addition, sit-ins were employed to disrupt the economic activity of prejudiced businesses. The constitutional right to vote was given to black Americans in 1869 un... ... middle of paper ... ... religion, sex, or national origin. It also ended unequal application of voter registration requirement, racial segregation in schools, at the workplace, and in public accommodations. This pivotal legislation demonstrated the growing support of the movement by the government. One year later, the Voting Rights Act, prohibiting discrimination in voting, accomplished the goal of garnering equal voting rights for black Americans. The African American civil rights movement was steadfast in its resolve to eradicate racial segregation and discrimination against black Americans and promote enforcement of constitutional voting rights for black Americans. Using a combination of non-violent and violent techniques, the civil rights movement successfully accomplished some of its goals. The growing support from the federal government augmented the movements’ success.

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