The civil rights movement was a pivotal struggle in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial discrimination and ensuring equal rights for African Americans. Activists, including notable figures like Martin Luther King Jr., organized peaceful protests, marches, and legal challenges to fight against segregation and unjust laws. One of the most significant events was the March on Washington in 1963, where King delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. This movement led to important legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which helped dismantle institutional racism and promote equality.