Which act aimed to protect voting rights for African Americans?

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is a landmark piece of legislation intended specifically to protect the voting rights of African Americans and eliminate barriers to their participation in the electoral process. This act aimed to address and overcome systemic discrimination that had historically disenfranchised Black voters, particularly in the Southern states.

Before its passing, many African Americans faced multiple obstacles, such as literacy tests and intimidation at the polls, which were designed to suppress their voting rights. The Voting Rights Act prohibited any voting practice or procedure that discriminated against voters on the basis of race or color and provided for federal oversight and enforcement of voter registration and election processes in jurisdictions with a history of discriminatory practices.

The context of this legislation was pivotal during the Civil Rights Movement, as activists worked tirelessly to secure equal rights and protections. Key events, such as the Selma to Montgomery marches, highlighted the urgent need for such protections and influenced public opinion and political will for the enactment of the law. This act remains a cornerstone of civil rights legislation and key to understanding the ongoing struggle for voting rights in the United States.