The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s is an important part of American history. It shows the incredible determination, resistance, and perseverance of African Americans. This movement aims to end racial segregation and discrimination. It was led by Black leaders and communities who fought against unfair laws and practices. Through organized efforts and persistent actions, African Americans showed they could create change and demand justice. Black Americans took control of their fight for rights during the Civil Rights Movement. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, along with groups like the NAACP, SCLC, and SNCC, played major roles. For example, President Eisenhower’s Executive Order 10730 helped desegregate Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. Black students, known as the Little Rock Nine, bravely attended the school with federal protection, showing their determination to get an equal education despite facing resistance (Source 2). …show more content…
African Americans used nonviolent protests to challenge segregation and racial injustice. Sit-ins, free rides, and peaceful marches were common tactics. John Lewis’s speech for the March on Washington in 1963 highlighted the harsh conditions Black Americans faced and criticized the government for not doing enough to protect their rights (Source 4). The march itself was a powerful act of resistance, showing the strength of the Black community in the fight for justice. Perseverance was crucial to the success of the Civil Rights Movement. Even though they faced violence and many setbacks, African Americans kept fighting for equality. Their efforts led to important changes, like the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This law ended segregation in public places and banned job discrimination (Source 6). The success of this law was due to years of persistent activism and the bravery of those who kept fighting for their