The Civil Rights Movement and Legislation

The struggle for civil rights has been a long one. Before 1954 the victories were small. The executive branch took some steps when it ordered the defense industries and the armed forces integrated. The Court ordered an end to the grandfather clause and white primaries, but it would take a major Supreme Court decision and active lobbying and pressure by the civil rights movement to get the policy changes that would move minorities toward equality.

What were the influences that led to passage of civil rights laws and favorable Supreme Court decisions?

Watch the two video clips for some influences.