Senate Ends Filibuster on Civil Rights Act
June 10th, 1964
June 10th, 1964

How Long Ago?
60 years, 9 months, 5 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Social Movements & Civil Rights
People
- Lyndon B. Johnson
- Richard Russell
- Everett Dirksen
- Mike Mansfield
Links & References
Tags
Senate Ends Filibuster on Civil Rights Act
The United States Senate concluded a 75-day filibuster aimed at delaying the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This action came after intense debates, negotiations, and widespread public support for civil rights reforms. The filibuster was led by Southern senators who opposed desegregation and various provisions of the bill. The breaking of the filibuster marked a significant step forward in the legislative process, allowing the Senate to move towards a final vote on the landmark legislation that aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Filibuster lasted 75 days in the Senate.
Civil Rights Act aimed to end segregation.
Key figures included Mike Mansfield and Lyndon Johnson.
Marked a shift in legislative power regarding civil rights.
What Happened?
The 75-day filibuster against the Civil Rights Act of 1964 epitomized the intense political struggle over civil rights in the United States, particularly in the context of the deep-seated opposition from Southern senators. The filibuster was primarily orchestrated by a coalition of Southern Democrats who sought to undermine the legislation intended to eliminate racial segregation in public places and ban employment discrimination. Faced with rising pressure from civil rights activists and the public, who demanded justice and equality, the proponents of the bill worked tirelessly to gather enough support within the Senate. On June 10, 1964, after weeks of strategic maneuvering and negotiations, Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield and other key figures managed to gather the requisite votes to cease the filibuster, thereby paving the way for a final vote on the legislation. This remarkable shift in momentum illustrated the growing influence of civil rights advocacy in American society and set the stage for a decisive vote that would lead to the eventual passage of the bill. The Senate's action reflected a broader societal change taking place across the nation regarding the rights of African Americans and other marginalized groups.
Why Does it Matter?
The breaking of the filibuster was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, as it demonstrated the changing political landscape in the United States. This event signified a crucial turning point in the fight for civil rights, highlighting the increasing inability of Southern segregationists to halt progress through legislative maneuvers. Ultimately, the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 would not only dismantle legal barriers to equality but also inspire future generations of activists to continue the struggle for justice and equality for all Americans.
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