Black History Events During Lyndon B. Johnson's Presidency

Serving from 1963 to 1969, Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as President on November 22, 1963, following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. During this same period, an intense racial struggle altered daily realities for black Americans and the country as a whole.

Leading Legislation

Johnson enacted legislation that was unfinished business when President Kennedy was assassinated, including signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This act opened public facilities to all Americans, regardless of their race, color, religion or national origin. Johnson also signed the Civil Rights Act of 1968, which prohibits discrimination in housing sales, rental and financing. In 1965, Congress passed the Voting Rights Act, which cemented equal voting rights for blacks.

Significant Developments

A memorable development during Johnson's presidency was the 1966 formation of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale. Also, in 1967, Thurgood Marshall became the first black justice appointed to the Supreme Court.

Notable Losses

Two of the most influential black leaders and orators in U.S. history were assassinated during this time frame: Malcolm X, formerly a Nation of Islam minister and national spokesman, in 1965; and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., who represented the voice of the civil rights era for many, in 1968.

References

• The White House: Lyndon B. Johnson
• U.S. Department Of Justice: Voting Rights Act
• Black Panther: Legacy
• Biography: Black History Timeline