The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was a decades-long struggle by African Americans to end institutionalised racial segregation, discrimination, and disenfranchisement.
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-07-16
Introduction
The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was a decades-long struggle by African Americans to end institutionalised racial segregation, discrimination, and disenfranchisement. Taking place primarily during the 1950s and 1960s, it was a pivotal era in American history, marked by nonviolent protests, grassroots organising, and landmark legal victories. This movement fundamentally challenged the nation to live up to its founding ideals of liberty and equality for all its citizens.
Learning objectives
After reading this article, you should be able to:
- Explain the system of "Jim Crow" segregation that existed in the American South.
- Identify key figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and their respective roles.
- Describe major events, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington.
- Understand the strategy of nonviolent civil disobedience and its impact.
- Recognise the landmark legislation that resulted from the movement, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The Age of Jim Crow
Although slavery was abolished after the American Civil War in 1865, freedom did not bring equality for African Americans. In the late 19th century, Southern states enacted a series of laws known as "Jim Crow" laws. These laws enforced strict racial segregation in almost every aspect of public life. Black and white people were forced to use separate schools, hospitals, restaurants, water fountains, and public transport. …