Civil Rights Acts Timeline
Civil Rights Acts – Timeline of Key Laws & Amendments
This page traces the history of the Civil Rights Acts, from Reconstruction through the modern era. Each law expanded (or attempted to expand) protections for equality under the Constitution.
Civil Rights Act of 1866
- First U.S. civil rights law, passed after the Civil War.
- Guaranteed citizenship and equal rights regardless of race.
- Codified in 42 U.S.C. § 1981 (contracts and property rights).
Civil Rights Act of 1871 (Ku Klux Klan Act)
- Targeted racial violence and intimidation in the South.
- Created civil remedies against those acting “under color of law” to deprive rights.
- Still forms the basis of 42 U.S.C. § 1983 civil rights lawsuits.
Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Landmark modern civil rights law.
- Prohibited discrimination in employment (Title VII), public accommodations (Title II), and federally funded programs (Title VI).
- Created the EEOC to enforce anti-discrimination law.
Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act)
- Prohibited housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin.
- Later amended to include sex (1974), disability (1988), and family status (1988).
Civil Rights Act of 1991
- Strengthened employee rights under Title VII.
- Allowed jury trials and compensatory/punitive damages for intentional discrimination.
- Clarified burden of proof standards in employment discrimination cases.
Why It Matters Today
The Civil Rights Acts collectively:
- Ensure equal access to jobs, housing, and public spaces.
- Provide a legal pathway to sue for discrimination or government overreach.
- Remain central to debates over race, equality, and federal enforcement powers.