The 1866 Law They Don’t Teach You About: America's First Civil Rights Act

Описание: *Video Description:*

Step into the turbulent world of post-Civil War America with our in-depth historical documentary on *The Civil Rights Act of 1866*. This compelling video explores the first federal law in U.S. history to define citizenship and guarantee equal rights under the law, regardless of race or previous condition of servitude. Discover how the Act was conceived in the heated political climate of Reconstruction, how it defied a presidential veto, and how it laid the legal groundwork for future civil rights protections.

Through rich storytelling, historical analysis, and vivid context, this video unpacks the struggles faced by African Americans after emancipation, the radical vision of the Republican Congress, and the fierce opposition from President Andrew Johnson. Viewers will learn how the Act sought to dismantle the Black Codes and defend the promise of true freedom, while also understanding its limitations and long-term legacy in the fight for equality.

Whether you're a history student, educator, or simply passionate about civil rights, this documentary offers an essential look at one of the most important and underappreciated moments in American legal history.

*References:*

Foner, Eric. Reconstruction: America's Unfinished Revolution, 1863–1877. New York: Harper & Row, 1988.
McPherson, James M. Ordeal by Fire: The Civil War and Reconstruction. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000.
Benedict, Michael Les. The Impeachment and Trial of Andrew Johnson. New York: W\.W. Norton, 1999.
U.S. Congress, *Civil Rights Act of 1866*, 14 Stat. 27–30.
Tushnet, Mark. The Constitution of the United States of America: A Contextual Analysis. Oxford: Hart Publishing, 2009.
National Archives. “The Civil Rights Act of 1866.” [https://www.archives.gov/milestone-do...](https://www.archives.gov/milestone-do...)
Legal Information Institute. “42 U.S. Code § 1981 – Equal rights under the law.” [https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/te...](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/te...)