Civil rights in America 1876 – 1956 – an overview

This brief overview will examine civil rights in America from the end of Reconstruction through to the Montgomery bus boycott. We look at the legacy of slavery, including legal, social, and political limitations on racial progress. We examine how inequality was maintained through economic exploitation and racial thought. How did African Americans respond to racism and discrimination? Who were the major spokespersons who advocated racial equality? Which national organisations emerged to represent the interests of African Americans? What were the moments of opportunity for change? Local histories offer understanding of the civil rights issue, and we therefore conclude with an analysis of the Montgomery bus boycott 1955-56.