Question

explain the main purpose of the civil rights act of 1964
sent federal election officials to the south to register more black voters
was more a symbolic act of congress than a significant piece of civil rights legislation
banned poll tax requirements for voting in federal elections
outlawed racial discrimination in most public places

Answer 1

The main purpose of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was to outlaw racial discrimination in most public places and to promote equality and civil rights for all citizens, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This landmark legislation aimed to end segregation in schools, workplaces, and public accommodations. It addressed various forms of discrimination and set the stage for further civil rights advancements.

While the Act did indeed aim to increase voter registration among African Americans (such as sending federal election officials to the South), its primary focus was on ending discrimination in public and private sectors, making it significantly more than just a symbolic act of Congress. The Civil Rights Act was pivotal in dismantling institutionalized racism and laid the groundwork for future civil rights legislation, such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which specifically aimed to eliminate barriers to voting for African Americans, including poll taxes.

In summary, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 primarily outlawed racial discrimination in most public places and was a significant step toward achieving civil rights and equality in the United States.