What was the primary purpose of the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was primarily aimed at ending discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This landmark legislation was a significant step in the civil rights movement, addressing widespread inequalities and injustices that persisted under Jim Crow laws and other forms of institutional discrimination in the United States. By making it illegal to discriminate in various areas such as employment, education, and public accommodations, the Act sought to ensure that all individuals had equal opportunities and protections under the law, thereby advancing the principles of equality and justice.

The focus on prohibiting discrimination addresses the social injustices of the time, fostering an environment where individuals would be judged on their abilities and character rather than their inherent traits. This Act laid the groundwork for future legislation aimed at protecting civil rights and furthering social justice, making it a cornerstone of American civil rights legislation.

Other choices do not align with the core objectives of the Civil Rights Act: promoting international trade and regulating immigration laws are issues outside the scope of this legislation, while establishing healthcare benefits for the elderly pertains to programs like Medicare, which are unrelated to civil rights.