The Voting Rights Act of 1965 marked a significant advancement in American civil rights legislation. It was largely prompted by the civil rights movement's relentless efforts to combat racial discrimination in voting, particularly in the Southern United States. In the lead-up to the Act, numerous protests and demonstrations had occurred, including the infamous Selma to Montgomery marches, which highlighted the extent of voter suppression faced by black citizens. The brutal response from law enforcement during these marches drew national attention and outrage, galvanizing public support for change.

On August 6, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law in a ceremony on the steps of the Capitol, emphasizing the importance of voting as a fundamental right. Key figures in the civil rights movement, such as Martin Luther King Jr., were present at the signing, symbolizing the collaborative efforts between political leaders and activists. The legislation prohibited racial discrimination in voting, outlawing literacy tests and similar barriers that had been used to disenfranchise African American voters.

The Act also provided for federal oversight and intervention in areas with a history of racial discrimination in voting, allowing for federal examiners to register voters in these jurisdictions. This mechanism was critical in increasing African American voter registration and participation. The legislation was a pivotal moment in ensuring equitable access to the ballot box for all citizens, fundamentally transforming the political landscape in the United States.