Final answer:
Disadvantaged Americans have historically gained their rights through struggle against entrenched interests, using litigation, direct action, and grassroots movements. Influential legislation and landmark court decisions were further bolstered by civic engagement and campaigns from various minority groups, ultimately leading to key civil rights advancements. Therefore correct option is E
Step-by-step explanation:
Disadvantaged Americans have generally gained their rights through a variety of methods, but notably not just by patiently waiting for their rights to be handed to them. Rather, they have achieved their rights primarily through struggle against entrenched interests, including through litigation, direct action, and the efforts of grassroots movements that engaged in protests and other forms of civic engagement. Legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and court decisions like Brown v. Board of Education played critical roles in securing these rights, supported by the grassroots activism of individuals and organizations that pushed for change against often resistant societal traditions and politics.
For example, the African American civil rights movement used demonstrations, boycotts, and legal actions to challenge segregation and discrimination, influencing other minority groups to fight for their rights using similar tactics. These groups, like Latino and Asian communities, brought their own lawsuits and engaged in direct actions that led to important gains, particularly regarding educational opportunities. The combined efforts of ordinary people, who utilized a variety of strategies to influence government policy and public opinion, were instrumental in progressing toward racial equality and the expansion of civil rights.