Which city was at the center of the Civil Rights Movement?

Birmingham, Alabama, was a crucial focal point in the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s. This city was known for its stark segregation and discriminatory practices, which led to significant activism and resistance by civil rights leaders and organizations. Birmingham's harsh racial tensions and violent responses to peaceful protests drew national attention, particularly from media outlets that covered these events extensively. Notable incidents, such as the 1963 Birmingham campaign spearheaded by Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), included sit-ins, marches, and the infamous use of fire hoses and police dogs against demonstrators.

The strategic importance of Birmingham was further highlighted by its status as a major industrial city in the South, making it emblematic of the systemic racism faced by African Americans during that era. The efforts in Birmingham culminated in significant legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which sought to end segregation and discrimination in public places. Thus, Birmingham's role in the Civil Rights Movement is recognized as pivotal in shaping the course of civil rights in American history.