Anti-Lynching Movement

The Anti-Lynching Movement was a social and political effort in the United States aimed at ending the practice of lynching—extrajudicial killings primarily targeting African Americans, often driven by racial prejudice and injustice. Activists, organizations, and some government officials worked to raise awareness, pass anti-lynching laws, and combat the violence and terror inflicted through these acts. Although efforts increased from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, widespread lynching persisted for many years. The movement was crucial in highlighting racial violence and pushing for civil rights and legal reforms to protect Black Americans from racial terror.