One of the challenges of a diverse society is discrimination. Throughout American history, various groups have faced discrimination. The federal government has taken actions that have either protected or limited the rights of these groups
Select two different groups that have faced discrimination in American history. For each group, describe examples of the discrimination it faced as well as actions taken by the government and whether those actions protected or limited the rights of the group..
Your essay should be no fewer than four paragraphs and include an introduction and conclusion.
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Civil Rights Unit Test Essay Rubric
(24 points)
Throughout American history, there have been numerous groups that have faced discrimination. Two such groups are African Americans and Native Americans. Both these groups have faced significant discrimination, but the federal government's actions have had varying effects on their rights.
African Americans have a long history of facing discrimination in the United States. From the era of slavery to the Jim Crow laws of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, African Americans were denied basic rights and opportunities. They were subjected to widespread segregation, racial violence, and economic inequality. For example, under the Jim Crow laws, African Americans had to use separate facilities, such as schools and restaurants, and were often denied the right to vote.
The federal government took several actions to protect the rights of African Americans. In 1865, the 13th Amendment abolished slavery, marking a significant step towards equality. However, the emancipation of African Americans did not immediately result in their full rights and integration into society. The government continued to pass legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, to address the systemic discrimination faced by African Americans. These actions were instrumental in dismantling legal segregation, promoting equal opportunities, and protecting voting rights.
Native Americans have also faced discrimination throughout American history. They were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands, confined to reservations, and subjected to policies that aimed to assimilate them into mainstream society. Treaties were often violated, leading to further displacement and loss of cultural identity. Native Americans were also denied the right to vote until the passage of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.
The federal government has taken actions that both protected and limited the rights of Native Americans. On one hand, the government recognized the sovereignty of Native American tribes and enacted legislation to support tribal self-governance. The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, for example, sought to reverse the damaging assimilation policies and promote tribal autonomy. However, the government's actions have not always been consistent with this goal. Native Americans continue to face challenges such as poverty, inadequate healthcare, and land disputes, exposing the limitations of the government's efforts in protecting their rights.
In conclusion, African Americans and Native Americans have faced discrimination throughout American history. While the government has taken actions to protect the rights of these groups, the effectiveness of these actions has varied. African Americans have benefited from legislation that has dismantled legal segregation and promoted equal opportunities and voting rights. However, Native Americans continue to face challenges, highlighting the limitations of governmental efforts in protecting their rights. It is crucial for the government to continue working towards a more inclusive and equitable society, where discrimination is eradicated, and the rights of all individuals are protected.