Civil rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms that protect individuals from discrimination and ensure equal treatment under the law. These rights are essential for maintaining a fair and just society, allowing people to participate fully in civic life without fear of oppression or bias. Historically, the struggle for civil rights has involved various movements aimed at ending racial segregation and discrimination, notably the Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. Key figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks played pivotal roles in advocating for equality and justice, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for civil rights worldwide.