Understanding the Formation of American Democracy and Civil Rights
The foundation of American democracy began with the Declaration of Independence in 1776, marking a pivotal moment in world history. Thomas Jefferson authored this revolutionary document, establishing fundamental principles that would shape the nation's future. The declaration's famous assertion that "all men are created equal" initially applied only to white male property owners, highlighting the complex journey ahead toward true equality.
The American governmental system, established by the Constitution in 1787, created three distinct branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. This structure implements a sophisticated system of checks and balances, preventing any single branch from becoming too powerful. The legislative branch, consisting of the House of Representatives and Senate, creates laws. The executive branch, led by the president, enforces laws and conducts foreign policy. The judicial branch, crowned by the Supreme Court, interprets laws and ensures their constitutionality.
Definition: The Civil Rights Movement was a decades-long struggle for racial equality that peaked in the 1950s and 1960s. Its achievements included the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
The journey toward civil rights has been long and ongoing. The Civil Rights Movement timeline spans from the 1909 founding of the NAACP through the 1960s achievements under Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s leadership. Key Civil Rights Movement achievements include the desegregation of public spaces, voting rights protection, and the prohibition of housing discrimination. Modern movements like Black Lives Matter continue this legacy, addressing contemporary racial justice issues.