The Civil Rights Act of 1964 banned discrimination by race, color, religion, sex, and national origin, reshaping American law and society.
Key Facts
- Signed into law
- July 2, 1964
- House vote
- 290–130 in favor
- Senate vote
- 73–27 in favor
- Senate filibuster duration
- 72 days days
- Proposed by
- President John F. Kennedy, June 1963
- Signed by
- President Lyndon B. Johnson
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Widespread racial segregation and discrimination in the United States prompted President Kennedy to propose landmark civil rights legislation in June 1963. Senate opposition led to a prolonged filibuster, and Kennedy's assassination in November 1963 stalled initial progress, leaving the bill in jeopardy until President Johnson assumed office and championed its passage.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed by the House on February 10, 1964, and by the Senate on June 19, 1964, after a 72-day filibuster. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed it into law on July 2, 1964, outlawing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin in employment, public accommodations, and voter registration.
The Act fundamentally altered American civil rights law, providing federal authority to enforce desegregation and prohibit employment discrimination. Although initial enforcement powers were limited, subsequent legislation strengthened the law. It established precedents for future civil rights protections and remains one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in U.S. history.
Political Outcome
Signed into law on July 2, 1964, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin across employment, public accommodations, and voter registration.
Racial segregation and discrimination legally permissible under state laws; federal enforcement of equal rights limited.
Federal law prohibited discrimination in public life and employment; federal government empowered to enforce civil rights protections.