National Copyright Act of 1976

The National Copyright Act of 1976 is a key U.S. law that governs copyright protection for creative works like books, music, films, and software. It grants authors exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display their work, while also allowing for fair use under certain conditions, like criticism or education. The law automatically protects original work once it's created, without needing registration, though registering can enhance legal protections. It also extended copyright terms, giving creators control over their work for a longer period, encouraging creativity and investment in new ideas.