Final answer:
The act passed in 1964 that empowered the federal government to withhold funding from school districts that refused to integrate schools is called the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This legislation outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin and provided the federal government with the authority to withhold funding from non-compliant school districts. By leveraging funding, the government aimed to promote desegregation and equal educational opportunities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The act passed in 1964 that empowered the federal government to withhold funding from school districts that refused to integrate schools is called the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This landmark legislation outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and it was instrumental in advancing the cause of civil rights in the United States.
One specific provision of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI, prohibited discrimination in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. This gave the federal government the authority to withhold funding from school districts that were not complying with the desegregation requirements.
By using this funding as leverage, the federal government aimed to encourage school districts to integrate and ensure equal educational opportunities for all students.
Learn more about Civil Rights Act of 1964