Civil Rights Act (1964)

Comprehensive U.S. law intended to end discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin. It is generally considered the most important U.S. law on civil rights since Reconstruction (1865-77). It bans discrimination, incl. sex based discrimination, by trade unions, schools, or employers that are involved in interstate commerce or do business with the federal government (Title VII); and assures nondiscrimination in the distribution of funds under federally assisted programs (Title VI).