The Voting Rights Act of 1965

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is a landmark law that aimed to eliminate barriers preventing African Americans and other minority groups from exercising their right to vote. It addressed practices like literacy tests, poll taxes, and intimidation that were used to suppress minority voters, especially in Southern states. The Act also required federal oversight in certain areas with a history of discrimination to ensure fair voting practices. Its goal was to promote equal access to voting and strengthen the democratic process by removing discriminatory obstacles.