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Brown v. Board of Education
The Supreme Court decided to have a general ruling on segregation in schools based on a culmination of several cases, one involving a girl named Linda Brown. This important case challenged segregated schooling which sparked activism. The ruling declared that state laws enforcing racial segregation in schools unconstitutional, influencing momentum for legislative change. It was a key part in the battle for educational equality and this idea of desegregation began to spread across the nation. -
Montgomery Bus Boycott
This was a year long protest which was spurred by Rosa Parks when she refused to give up her bus seat. This led to a court ruling against bus segregation. This showcase of nonviolent protest fueled momentum for civil rights legislation. This Boycott influenced more protests nationwide and essentially led to the creation of the Montgomery Improvement Association with Martin Luther King Jr. as their leader. -
March on Washington
This was a massive demonstration of an organized protest by civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. They advocated for civil and economic rights. This is where Dr.King gave a speech that captured the attention of the public. This powerful display brought unity and determination for equality while attracting worldwide attention. -
Civil Rights Act of 1964
This feat outlawed discrimination and segregation based off of sex, race, color, and place of origin. The act was a major victory for the movement after years of action. This act only furthered equality and justice in American society. This paved the way for future civil rights advancements, this really skyrocketed the momentum for more legislative change. -
Selma to Montgomery March
This was known as "Bloody Sunday." These marches protested voting right denial. Protesters were met on a bridge by a sheriff and deputized armed white citizens. The protesters refused to stop and many were beaten on television. This outraged the public and President Johnson as peaceful protesters were attacked and he proposed the Voting Rights Act. This march demonstrated exactly how the Civil Rights movements created momentum for legislative change.