SR

Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1968

President Johnson passed the Civil Rights Act in 1964

  • President Kennedy presented the bill to Congress

  • President Johnson used Kennedy's momentum

  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 details:

    • Outlawed discrimination in public facilities

    • Encouraged desegregation in schools

    • Promoted equal job opportunities

    • Strengthened rules against voter registration discrimination

The Civil Rights Act's Impact

  • Forced federal government to protect minorities

  • Introduced 'affirmative action'

  • Act used as a blueprint by other discriminated groups

  • Shortcomings:

    • Voting rights fully addressed in 1965

    • Inequality still faced by African Americans in the North

The 1968 Civil Rights Act addressed Housing

  • Known as the Fair Housing Act

  • Aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in housing

  • Made it illegal to refuse housing based on race, religion, etc.

  • Enforcement powers were limited

Challenges and Riots

  • Continued discrimination despite legislation

  • Riots and violence in response to ongoing discrimination

  • Need for a more aggressive approach to achieve real change

Comment and Analysis

  • Legislation alone not enough to combat deep-rooted racist attitudes

  • Challenges in achieving true integration and equality

This highlights the key aspects and impact of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1968 in the USA, showcasing the progress made and the challenges that persisted.