The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was arguably the most comprehensive civil rights law ever passed in the United States.  It was proposed by President John F. Kennedy in 1963 and passed by his successor, President Lyndon B. Johnson, on July 2, 1964, 7 months and 10 days after President Kennedy was assassinated.  The law prohibited segregation—based on race–in schools and public places, and it made employment discrimination illegal.

For more information, the Grateful American Book Prize recommends The Civil Rights Act of 1964: An End to Racial Segregation by Judy L Hasday.

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The Fourth of July is one of the most highly anticipated holidays of the year.  It’s a day for picnics, barbecues and fireworks.  But it has a more significant meaning.  It is when we celebrate — and remember —  America’s hard-won independence from British rule.

Recommended reading: The Declaration by Gemma Malley.

 

 

 

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Hamilton, one of Broadway’s most popular offerings, has appealed to people of all ages. It almost guarantees an interest about learning more about the man and his times. He was killed on July 14, 1804 during a duel with his long-time political rival, Aaron Burr. Their complicated history is worth knowing.

The Grateful American Book Prize suggests that Judith St. George’s book, The Duel: The Parallel Lives of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr.

 

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July 1 to July 15 — History Matters is a biweekly feature courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize.