If you aim at writing an civil rights movement essay, make sure to outline main events and check samples of the well-written papers and essays on this topic. You can recognize a worthy piece by reading its introduction and conclusion. As you explore, civil rights movement essay topics, make an ...Read More
If you aim at writing an civil rights movement essay, make sure to outline main events and check samples of the well-written papers and essays on this topic. You can recognize a worthy piece by reading its introduction and conclusion. As you explore, civil rights movement essay topics, make an introduction and mention that the civil rights movement was a struggle of African Americans and their like-minded allies for social justice in the United States that came to national prominence during the mid-1950s. The purpose of this movement was to end legalized racial discrimination, disenfranchisement, and racial segregation in the United States. Provide the basic background and add information on the outcomes, especially if you are dealing with cause-and-effect essay writing. The civil rights movement has started in 1954 and lasted until 1968, which is the golden period that you have to mention in your essay. You should mention the causes as you write by focusing on the legislation, racial prejudice, and the socio-economic factors that always take place. As you can see from our free samples, it is also useful to write about related personalities like John Oliver Killens or Martin Luther King, Jr. and his art of narration.
Hook Examples for Civil Rights Movement Essays
Anecdotal Hook
Imagine standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963, listening to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. deliver his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. This moment in history epitomized the Civil Rights Movement's power and importance.
Question Hook
What does it mean to fight for civil rights? Explore the complex history, key figures, and lasting impact of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.
Quotation Hook
"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. How did civil rights activists like King refuse to stay silent and ignite change?
Statistical or Factual Hook
Did you know that in 1964, the Civil Rights Act was signed into law, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin? Dive into the facts and milestones of the Civil Rights Movement.
Definition Hook
What defines a civil rights movement? Explore the principles, goals, and strategies that distinguish civil rights movements from other social justice movements.
Rhetorical Question Hook
Was the Civil Rights Movement solely about racial equality, or did it pave the way for broader social change and justice? Examine the movement's multifaceted impact.
Historical Hook
Travel back in time to the mid-20th century and uncover the roots of the Civil Rights Movement, from the Jim Crow era to the landmark Supreme Court decisions.
Contrast Hook
Contrast the injustices and systemic racism faced by African Americans prior to the Civil Rights Movement with the progress made through protests, legislation, and activism.
Narrative Hook
Meet Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her bus seat, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Follow her courageous journey and the ripple effect it had on the Civil Rights Movement.
Controversial Statement Hook
Prepare to explore the controversies within the Civil Rights Movement, such as differing strategies among activists and debates over nonviolence versus militancy.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent leader in the American civil rights movement, known for his powerful speeches and unwavering dedication to nonviolent protest. He possessed a unique set of characteristics that set him apart from other leaders of his time, and continue to...
In his essay ‘The Ways of Meeting Oppression,‘ Luther King Jr. discusses the various methods through which individuals can respond to oppression. He explores the psychological and emotional impact of oppression and offers insight into how individuals can confront and overcome it. This essay aims...
The Reconstruction era in the United States, which followed the Civil War, was a period of significant societal and political change. The main goal of Reconstruction was to bring the Southern states back into the Union and to integrate formerly enslaved individuals into society as...
Disobedience is often viewed as a negative behavior, associated with rebellion and defiance against authority. However, throughout history, acts of disobedience have played a significant role in promoting social progress. From civil rights movements to political revolutions, disobedience has been a catalyst for change and...
Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X were two prominent figures in the American civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s. Although they had similar goals of achieving racial equality and justice for African Americans, their approaches and ideologies differed significantly. This essay will...
One Crazy Summer, a novel by Rita Williams-Garcia, follows three young sisters, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern, as they spend a summer in Oakland, California with their estranged mother, Cecile. Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement in the late 1960s, the novel explores...
Black History Month is a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of black individuals who have made a significant impact on society. This month serves as a...
Rosa Parks: The Courage to Stand for Change Made-to-order essay as fast as you need it Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences + experts online Get my essay In the annals of American history, few names resonate as powerfully as Rosa...
Cesar Chavez was a prominent civil rights activist and labor leader who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of farmworkers in the United States. His efforts led to significant changes in labor laws and working conditions for agricultural workers. In this essay, we...
The Slauson Massacre, also known as the Slauson Avenue Massacre, was a tragic event that occurred on August 11, 1965, in Los Angeles, California. The incident took place in the predominantly African American neighborhood of Watts and is often regarded as one of the most...
The historical and literary processes of the second half of the 20th century demonstrate the merging of the civil rights movement with the left-wing literary movement, driven by critical sentiments and a deep desire for social justice. This convergence is exemplified by influential figures such...
One of the most significant debates in American history is the clash between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists over the ratification of the United States Constitution. The Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, advocated for a strong central government and the ratification...
Malcolm X is a figure who has been the subject of much debate and controversy. His character traits, in particular, have been a topic of interest for many scholars, historians, and individuals alike. As a civil rights activist, Malcolm X was known for his strong...
Malcolm X, born Malcolm Little, was a prominent African American activist and leader during the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. His powerful oratory skills and unwavering commitment to the empowerment of Black people made him a polarizing figure in American history. In...
America, the land of opportunity, freedom, and diversity. Living in America offers a unique experience that is unlike any other country in the world. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, there are countless reasons why living in America is a privilege. In this...
Mitch Landrieu, the former mayor of New Orleans, delivered a powerful speech on May 19, 2017, regarding the removal of Confederate monuments in the city. His speech, often referred to as the “Address on the Removal of Confederate Monuments in New Orleans,” has been widely...
In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and a group of African-Americans embarked on a mission to challenge the segregation laws in the South. Their plan was to march into downtown Birmingham, Alabama and express their disapproval of these unjust laws. However, their act of...
Segregation is a deeply rooted issue that has plagued societies for centuries. It is the act of setting apart or separating people or things based on specific characteristics such as race, gender, religion, or socioeconomic status. Despite efforts to address and combat segregation, it continues...
In his famous “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. responds to a group of white clergymen who had criticized the timing and methods of the civil rights demonstrations in Birmingham, Alabama. This powerful letter not only addresses the specific criticisms leveled against...
I. Introduction In the realm of civil rights activism, few individuals exude the same level of grace, strength, and determination as Coretta Scott King. As the wife of the legendary Martin Luther King Jr., she was not merely a supporting figure but a trailblazer in...
Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, is a figure often associated with the rise of democracy in America. His presidency, from 1829 to 1837, marked a significant shift in American politics and governance, as he championed the cause of the common man...
The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom in the years before the Civil War in the United States. This clandestine system, which operated from the late 18th century to the Civil...
In his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered on August 28, 1963, at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., Martin Luther King Jr. utilized various literary devices to effectively convey his message of equality and justice for all. One of the most powerful tools...
Sojourner Truth’s iconic speech “Ain’t I a Woman” was delivered at the Women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio in 1851. This powerful and influential speech addressed issues of gender and race, challenging the prevailing notions of womanhood and advocating for the rights of African American...
Racism, segregation, disenfranchisement, Jim Crow laws, socioeconomic inequality
Key People
W.E.B. Du Bois, Jesse Jackson, Martin Luther King, Jr., Henry MacNeal Turner, John Oliver Killens
Main Information
Civil rights movement was a struggle of African Americans and their like-minded allies for social justice in United States that came to national prominence during the mid-1950s. The purpose was to end legalized racial discrimination, disenfranchisement and racial segregation in the United States.
Jim Crow Laws
“Jim Crow” laws were established in the South beginning in the late 19th century with a purpose to separate Black people from white people. Black people couldn’t use the same public facilities as white people or go to the same schools. Although, Jim Crow laws weren’t adopted in northern states, Black people still experienced discrimination.
Forms of Protests
Forms of protest and civil disobedience included boycotts, such as the most successful Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955–1956) that lasted for 381 days in Alabama; mass marches, such as the Children's Crusade in Birmingham in 1963 and Selma to Montgomery marches (1965) in Alabama; "sit-ins" such as the Greensboro sit-ins (1960) in North Carolina and Nashville sit-ins (1960) in Tennessee.
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
The Great March on Washington was held in Washington, D.C., on August 28, 1963. The purpose was to advocate for the civil and economic rights of African Americans. It was organized and attended by civil rights leaders such as A. Philip Randolph, Bayard Rustin and Martin Luther King, Jr., who delivered his historic "I Have a Dream" speech.
Civil Rights Act of 1964
On July 2, 1964, President Eisenhower signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that outlaws discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, and later sexual orientation and gender identity. The act "remains one of the most significant legislative achievements in American history".
Assassination of the Leaders
The civil rights movement had tragic consequences for two of its leaders. On February 21, 1965, Malcolm X was assassinated at a rally and Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated on his hotel room’s balcony on April 4, 1968.
Civil Rights Act of 1968
The Civil Rights Act of 1968 was signed into law by United States President Lyndon B. Johnson during the King assassination riots. It prohibited discrimination concerning the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, and national origin.
Legacy
The 20th-century civil rights movement produced an enduring transformation of the legal status of African Americans and other victims of discrimination.