Which event is considered the starting point of the American Civil Rights Movement?

The Montgomery Bus Boycott is considered the starting point of the American Civil Rights Movement because it was a pivotal event that set in motion a series of actions aimed at combating racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. Initiated in 1955 after Rosa Parks' arrest for refusing to give up her seat to a white man, the boycott lasted for over a year and involved extensive community organization and mobilization by African Americans in Montgomery, Alabama. This event highlighted the power of grassroots activism and nonviolent protest, showcasing the potential for collective action to effect change.

The success of the boycott not only led to a Supreme Court ruling that declared segregation on public buses unconstitutional but also inspired other cities and movements across the country. It served as a catalyst for various civil rights activities and laid the groundwork for future milestones in the movement, such as the formation of key organizations, the March on Washington, and the eventual passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This foundational nature of the boycott is what marks it as a significant turning point in the fight for civil rights in the United States.