Civil Rights Movement Essay

What is the Civil Rights Movement? The Civil Rights Movement can be defined as the movement in the United States that began in the 1950s, and was established to provide rights to African American citizens. The Civil Rights Movement is one of the most important movements that has occurred within the United States because not only did it spark a change in the way African American citizens were treated, but it allowed a change that is still seen in today’s day and age. Within the Civil Rights Movement, it was showcased by a series of nonviolent protests, campaigns, and organizations that were led by prominent people such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X. The Civil Rights Movement stemmed from a long history of racial injustices

Non-violent action was seen as the most effective and appropriate choice of action that would best work to expose the segregational system that was set in place. (mshistorynow.mdah.ms.gov) By choosing non-violent action it allowed for there to be less violence and repression in response to this movement. Non-violent action was effective within this movement for several reasons, the first reason being that it was able to gain the support of the American public easier. By peacefully protesting, there was minimal backlash in the way that they approached the Civil Rights Movement which made it easier for the government to listen and take action for their cause. Non-violent action also minimized the risk of retaliation by the authorities and government figures because this type of action did not make them a threat to the public or anyone's

The amount of laws and policies that this movement has influenced is remarkable and that says a lot about why the Civil Rights Movement is so important not only in history, but also in the present day. This movement promoted equal opportunities for all citizens and has helped for society to move forward and past the outdatedness of discrimination. The impact of the Civil Rights Movement did not just help shape the South into modernization, but it also shaped the world into a place of equality for all. (pbs.org) This is displayed within our justice systems, school systems, and even healthcare