What was the main objective of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s?

The main objective of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s was to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. This movement sought to dismantle the systemic inequalities that were prevalent in American society, particularly in the Southern states, where Jim Crow laws enforced racial segregation in schools, public transportation, and various public spaces. Activists fought for voting rights, equal access to education, and fair treatment in employment and housing.

Key events, such as the March on Washington and the Selma to Montgomery marches, brought national attention to the injustices faced by African Americans and highlighted the urgent need for reform. Landmark legislations, like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, emerged as direct results of the movement's efforts, signifying significant strides toward achieving racial equality. Each of these developments underscored the movement's focus on addressing racial discrimination, making the goal of ending such practices the defining characteristic of this era in American history.