Final answer:
Jackie Robinson was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, contributing to the NAACP and supporting economic empowerment. The civil rights era also saw significant legislative achievements with Presidents Kennedy and Johnson pushing for reforms, culminating in the pivotal 1964 Civil Rights Act.
Step-by-step explanation:
The historical figure in question is Jackie Robinson, a legendary baseball player and active participant in the civil rights movement. His involvement included serving on the NAACP's board of directors and contributing to the foundation of an African American-owned bank.
The broader context of the civil rights movement is marked by pivotal moments such as the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act by President Lyndon Johnson, which banned discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin and established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Furthermore, the efforts of President John F. Kennedy before his assassination also played a role in pushing for civil rights reform, although the realization of these efforts primarily came under Johnson's administration.
The fight for desegregation and integration during the civil rights era was fueled by various factors, including Cold War concerns about the United States' international image.