The civil rights movement was arguably the most important reform in American history. This book recounts the extraordinary and often bloody story of how tens of thousands of ordinary blacks overcame long odds to dethrone segregation, to exercise the right to vote and to improve their economic standing. Their civil rights movement required unfathomable courage and persistent agitation, during which many activists sacrificed their homes, jobs and lives. Written in a lively and accessible style, the book: Provides a detailed discussion of the racism that accompanied slavery in America and thereafter consigned blacks to an inferior position Addresses the actions of white racists, white liberals, and black reformers and radicals Discusses local reformers who laboured for years to get the movement off the ground Provides documents covering the most important aspects of the modern civil rights movement Contains Maps and Photographs, as well as a Glossary, a Chronology, a Who's Who list of key figures, and a Bibliography. Organized in a clear chronological fashion, the book shows how concerted black pressure in a variety of forms ultimately carried the day in realizing a more just society for African Americans. It will provide students of American history with an invaluable comprehensive introduction to the Civil Rights Movement.Bruce J. Dierenfield is Peter Canisius Distinguished Teaching Professor of American History at Canisius College in Buffalo, New York.