The civil rights movement

The civil rights movement was arguably the most important reform movement in American history. This book recounts the extraordinary and often bloody story of how tens of thousands of ordinary African-Americans overcame long odds to dethrone segregation, to exercise the right to vote and to improve their economic standing. Their civil rights movement required unfathomable courage and persistent agitation, during which many activists sacrificed their homes, jobs and lives. The book shows how concerted pressure in a variety of forms ultimately carried the day in realizing a more just society for African-Americans. -- From back cover.