Civil Rights in America

To live freely and participate in society is a right many take for granted. Achieving and maintaining those civil rights have been a struggle for different groups throughout U.S. history. Civil rights mean more than the protests of the 1950s and 1960s and reach beyond racial and ethnic groups. Today, the struggle has gone from an issue of racial equality to equality for all and new voices are engaging in the discussion, helping to define who we are as a people and a nation.


B&W photo of finger print card with Rosa Parks signature

The Birth of the Civil Rights Movement

From 1941-1954, post-war America begins to grapple with the social and legislative changes that reshape the national conversation.

B&W photo of civil rights leaders standing next to President Eisenhower

The Modern Civil Rights Movement

March into history with the transformation figures and events of 1954-1964.

Rangers in flat hat mingle with large group walking across steel arch bridge

Events

Civil Rights- related ranger talks, workshops, special celebrations, commemorations and more!

three people standing on stage, woman on right with microphone in hand

News

Read the latest Civil Rights-related news from across the National Park Service.

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