Question

FRQ 3.

4. In the United States, groups use different methods in order to achieve their policy goals. Take a position on
whether legal challenges or social movements are the most effective means for changing federal policy in the
area of civil rights.
Use at least one piece of evidence from one of the following foundational documents:
The Federalist 78
The First Amendment
"Letter from Birmingham Jail"
In your response you should do the following:
.
✔ Respond to the prompt with a defensible claim or thesis that establishes a line of
Support your claim with at least TWO pieces of specific and relevant evidence.
• One piece of evidence must come from one of the foundational documents listed
above.
•
A second piece of evidence can come from any other foundational document not
used as your first piece of evidence, or it may be from your knowledge of

Answer 1

Both legal challenges and social movements have been effective means for changing federal policy in civil rights, with legal challenges guided by the judiciary's role in The Federalist 78 and social movements empowered by First Amendment rights, as seen in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement.

Step-by-step explanation:

In analyzing the most effective means for changing federal policy in the area of civil rights, it's essential to consider both legal challenges and social movements. Legal challenges, as referenced in The Federalist 78, have been instrumental in redefining and protecting civil rights through judicial review. This foundational document suggests that an independent judiciary is critical to safeguarding the rights and liberties of the people, serving as a tool against the encroachment of the majority.

Moreover, the impact of social movements cannot be understated, as exemplified by the successes of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, which was largely driven by grassroots activism and nonviolent protest. The First Amendment safeguards freedoms that are fundamental to social movements, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances. This right was exercised powerfully during the Civil Rights Movement, forging significant policy changes such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Both methods have been influential, but the effectiveness of each can vary based on the circumstances and specific policy goals. Ultimately, a combination of the two strategies often works best in effectuating federal policy change regarding civil rights.

Answer 2

Legal challenges and social movements are both important for changing federal policy in the area of civil rights. Legal challenges use the power of the courts, while social movements create public pressure for change.

Step-by-step explanation:

Legal challenges and social movements are both important methods for changing federal policy in the area of civil rights in the United States, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Legal challenges, such as filing lawsuits and bringing cases to the courts, can be effective in changing federal policy because they use the power of the judicial branch to interpret and enforce civil rights laws. For example, the First Amendment provides the legal basis for challenging policies that infringe upon freedom of speech or freedom of assembly.

On the other hand, social movements, such as protests, demonstrations, and grassroots organizing, can also be effective in changing federal policy by bringing attention to issues and creating public pressure for change. A well-known example of a social movement is the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, which used nonviolent protests and civil disobedience to bring about significant changes in federal policies regarding segregation and voting rights.

Learn more about changing federal policy in the area of civil rights