How did the Democratic Party’s support of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 lead to a change in its membership?
(1 point)
Responses
It led to the withdrawal of many rural farmers.
It led to the withdrawal of many rural farmers.
It led to the withdrawal of many urban workers.
It led to the withdrawal of many urban workers.
It led to the withdrawal of many members in the North.
It led to the withdrawal of many members in the North.
It led to the withdrawal of many members in the South.
It led to the withdrawal of many members in the South.
The correct answer is: It led to the withdrawal of many members in the South.
Explanation:
The Democratic Party's support of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a significant turning point in American politics, especially in relation to its membership. The Act aimed to end racial discrimination in public spaces and improve voting rights for African Americans. However, this support contradicted the views of many conservative Democrats, particularly those in the South.
The Democratic Party had historically been a coalition of both conservative and liberal members. Prior to the Civil Rights Act, the party had a significant number of conservative Democrats who were opposed to civil rights reform. These conservative Democrats were primarily found in the South, where racial segregation was deeply entrenched.
The Democratic Party's support for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 led to a significant shift in its membership. Many conservative Democrats in the South disagreed with the party's position on civil rights and felt that it no longer represented their values. As a result, they withdrew their support and left the Democratic Party.
This shift in membership had long-lasting consequences for the Democratic Party. The withdrawal of many members in the South weakened the party's presence and influence in the region. It also created an opening for the Republican Party to appeal to conservative voters who were disillusioned with the Democratic Party's position on civil rights. This ultimately contributed to the realignment of Southern politics, with many conservative, white voters in the South shifting their allegiance to the Republican Party.