Final answer:
The main idea of a call to action during the Civil Rights Movement was to inspire people to advocate for changes that would end racial discrimination, culminating in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main idea of a call to action in the context of the Civil Rights Movement is a public appeal by leaders or groups to motivate people to take action toward achieving legislative or social changes. The 16th Street Baptist Church bombing and the subsequent signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by President Johnson were pivotal moments that exemplified this. Such events showcased the severity of racial injustice and spurred government action to pass landmark legislation to combat racism and promote equal rights.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a crucial step towards equality and justice, outlawing discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, and gender in various aspects of life, including public accommodations, federal funding, and employment. It was a powerful result of civil activism, presidential commitment, and a transformative push for societal change.
President Johnson's perseverance in overcoming opposition within Congress to pass the act, as well as the public's involvement in civil rights protests, were critical in this monumental achievement. The legacy of the Civil Rights Movement continues to remind us of the effectiveness of collective action in driving forward the principles of democracy and human rights.