Civil Rights Act of 1964

Definition

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a landmark piece of legislation in the United States that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It aimed to end segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination, marking a significant turning point in the Civil Rights Movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Civil Rights Act was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964, following a strong push from civil rights activists and the public.
2. Title II of the Act prohibits discrimination in public accommodations such as hotels, restaurants, and theaters, ensuring access for all individuals regardless of race or other characteristics.
3. Title VII addresses employment discrimination, making it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
4. The passage of the Civil Rights Act was met with significant opposition in Congress, including multiple filibusters by senators who sought to delay its enactment.
5. The Act laid the groundwork for future civil rights legislation and was pivotal in shifting societal attitudes toward equality and justice for all Americans.

Review Questions

• How did the Civil Rights Act of 1964 impact segregation laws in the United States?
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 significantly weakened the legal foundations of segregation laws in the United States by making discrimination based on race and other characteristics illegal. It effectively abolished Jim Crow laws that enforced racial segregation in public places. With this act in place, facilities that had previously been segregated were required to integrate, promoting greater social equality and access for marginalized groups.
• What role did filibuster play in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964?
  • Filibuster played a critical role in the legislative process surrounding the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as opponents sought to prolong debate and delay its passage. Senators opposed to civil rights used this tactic extensively, highlighting their resistance to ending segregation and discrimination. Ultimately, proponents of the Act overcame these obstacles through a combination of political strategy and public support, leading to its eventual enactment despite the filibuster attempts.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on American society and subsequent legislation.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 had profound long-term effects on American society by establishing a legal framework for combating discrimination and promoting equality. It inspired subsequent legislation such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and further advancements in civil rights protections. The Act not only transformed public policy but also influenced social movements and public consciousness regarding issues of race and equality, shaping a more inclusive American identity that continues to evolve today.

Related terms

Segregation: The enforced separation of different racial groups in a country, community, or establishment, often seen in schools, public facilities, and transportation prior to the Act.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): A federal agency established by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to enforce laws against workplace discrimination and to promote equal opportunity for all employees.

Voting Rights Act of 1965: Legislation that aimed to eliminate barriers to voting for African Americans, building upon the foundation laid by the Civil Rights Act of 1964.