Section 1
Introduction
The Civil Rights Movement was a long struggle by African Americans and their allies to end segregation and gain equal rights in the United States. It is usually said to have taken place from the mid-1950s through the late 1960s, though the fight for equality began long before and continues today.
For most of American history, Black citizens were denied basic rights. They were forced into separate schools, separate buses, and separate public spaces, and were often blocked from voting. The Civil Rights Movement worked to change that by using the courts, peaceful protests, marches, and powerful speeches.
The main idea is simple: African Americans and activists worked together to end segregation and win equal rights under the law. Their courage led to landmark court rulings and federal laws that changed the country forever.
Use the menu above to explore each part of the story, starting with segregation in America.