Freedom for All

African Americans in the United States did not always have the same freedoms as other Americans. Many were kept from voting. Some were not allowed to go to good schools. Others were not allowed to use or enjoy the same things as white people.

In the 1960s, people protested. They said African Americans should have the same rights as all Americans. These protests helped change the laws.

Illustration of the globe with a label showing the United States' location On August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke to more than 200,000 people during the March on Washington to demand equal rights for all citizens.

On August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke to more than 200,000 people during the March on Washington to demand equal rights for all citizens.

Before You Move On

  • 1. Conclusion Why did many American women protest against the government in the early 1900s?

  • 2. Compare and Contrast Why did African Americans protest in the 1960s? How were their goals similar to and different from the goals of women in the early 1900s?