How did the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s help to end segregation and discrimination against Blacks and Mexicans?

Question

What were the legal steps taken in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960,s help to end segregation and discrimination. Why did the civil rights movement rely so heavily on test cases in the courts.

Answer 1

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed when

President Johnson was in office.  The bill was

introduced by President Kennedy in 1963.

Answer 2

Hey Tommy! Good luck on the homework! : )

Answer 3

Some milestones in ending segregation:

1940s - Armed forces are desegregated by executive order signed by President Truman

1954 Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court decision stating that segregated schools were not separate but equal, paving the way to desegregation. Unfortunately, as you might guess, many states and local governments dragged their heels on implementation - going so far as to even close public schools or facilities which were to be opened to persons of all ethnicities

1965 - Civil Rights Act

The premise of using test cases in the courts by civil rights activists rested on two points - they wanted to show that it was unconstitutional and secondly, they couldn't do it through the popular votes given that many blacks were disenfranchised through the South.

Answer 4

Racism was somewhat diminished with the recognition of human rights making the Blacks and Mexicans enjoy equality with the Whites on many aspects particularly in education and job opportunities.