July 2
Civil Rights Act of 1964 Signed
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was landmark legislation that ended segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination. Originally proposed by President Kennedy, the act was signed by President Johnson on July 2, 1964. It remains one of the most significant legislative achievements of the civil rights movement.
Civil Rights Act Signed
On July 2, 1964, President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act in a nationally televised ceremony. The landmark legislation banned discrimination in public accommodations, employment, and federally funded programs. It remains one of the most significant legislative achievements in American history.
Amistad Revolt
On July 2, 1839, Sengbe Pieh (Joseph Cinqué) led 53 enslaved Africans in seizing control of the ship La Amistad. The case went to the Supreme Court, where John Quincy Adams argued that the Africans had been illegally enslaved. They were freed and most returned to Africa.
Medgar Evers Born
Born July 2, 1925, Medgar Evers served in World War II and became the NAACP's first field secretary in Mississippi. He worked to overturn segregation and register Black voters until his assassination in 1963.
Denmark Vesey Executed
On July 2, 1822, Denmark Vesey was hanged in Charleston, South Carolina. He had planned a massive uprising involving thousands of enslaved people. The plot was betrayed before it could be carried out.
Civil Rights Act
Landmark legislation outlawing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Death of Denmark Vesey
Denmark Vesey, an African American man who planned a major slave rebellion, was executed in Charleston, South Carolina.