How long was the filibuster for the Civil Rights Act?
The filibuster for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was one of the longest and most contentious in the history of the United States Senate. This historic event took place over a period of 60 days, from May 21 to June 10, 1964. During this time, Southern senators employed a procedural tactic to delay the passage of the legislation, which aimed to dismantle the legal framework of segregation and discrimination. The filibuster was a strategic maneuver used to prevent a vote on the bill, as it required a two-thirds majority to end the debate and proceed to a final vote. The duration of the filibuster was a testament to the deep-seated resistance to civil rights reforms at the time.
The filibuster began when Southern senators, led by Texas Senator Richard Russell, mounted a relentless campaign to block the bill. They argued that the legislation would infringe upon states’ rights and undermine the social fabric of the South. The filibuster was characterized by a series of speeches, with senators taking turns delivering lengthy orations to delay the bill’s progress. Among the most memorable speeches were those by Senators Robert Byrd of West Virginia and Strom Thurmond of South Carolina, who spoke for over 24 hours each.
The 60-day filibuster was a grueling period for the Senate, as members were required to be present for roll call votes, which occurred every 15 minutes. This rigorous schedule was intended to wear down the opposition and maintain the filibuster. However, the determination of the civil rights advocates and the Democratic leadership in the Senate proved to be unyielding.
Ultimately, the filibuster was broken on June 10, 1964, when a cloture vote was passed with the support of 71 senators, just one vote short of the two-thirds majority required to end the debate. This vote marked a significant victory for the civil rights movement and paved the way for the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964.
The filibuster for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 serves as a stark reminder of the deep divisions that existed in American society at the time. It also highlights the importance of perseverance and the unyielding commitment of civil rights activists and their allies in the fight for equality and justice. The 60-day filibuster was a pivotal moment in American history, demonstrating the power of grassroots movements and the potential for change in the face of adversity.
