Which act outlawed discrimination in public accommodations, prohibited discrimination in federally assisted programs, and strengthened federal enforcement of voting rights and school desegregation?

• A. Affirmative Action
• B. Civil Rights Act of 1964
• C. Voting Rights Act of 1965
• D. Civil Rights Act of 1957

Answer: (B)

A broad federal effort to end segregation across multiple parts of public life. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 banned discrimination in public places such as hotels, restaurants, and theaters, ensuring that people could access services without being refused because of race. It also prohibited discrimination in programs that received federal funds, so schools and other federally supported activities had to treat people equally. In addition, it gave the federal government stronger tools to enforce desegregation in schools and to uphold civil rights protections more generally, laying the groundwork for future safeguards, including voting rights protections that would be strengthened further by later legislation. Among these options, this act best fits all three elements described: ending discrimination in public accommodations, prohibiting discrimination in federally funded programs, and expanding federal authority to enforce desegregation and civil rights.