The Civil Rights Movement in the United States became more radical between 1965 and 1968 for several reasons, and in a variety of ways:
The passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965: The passage of this act, which aimed to eliminate racial barriers to voting, marked a major victory for the Civil Rights Movement. However, it also led to a backlash from white supremacists and segregationists who were angered by the prospect of increased political power for African Americans. This, in turn, led to more radical forms of protest and resistance.
The assassination of Malcolm X: Malcolm X was a prominent figure in the Black nationalist movement, and his assassination in 1965 was a significant loss for the movement. It also radicalized some members of the movement who felt that non-violent resistance was not enough to achieve real change.
The rise of the Black Power movement: The Black Power movement emerged in the mid-1960s as a response to the limitations of the Civil Rights Movement. It advocated for a more militant approach to achieving racial justice and called for Black self-determination and self-defense. This movement was more radical than the Civil Rights Movement and advocated for more aggressive tactics.
The Vietnam War: The Vietnam War was a major issue of contention during this time period, and many Civil Rights activists opposed the war. They argued that resources were being diverted away from domestic issues, including the struggle for racial justice, and that the war disproportionately affected people of color. This opposition to the war fueled a more radical approach to activism.
The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.: King's assassination in 1968 was a devastating blow to the Civil Rights Movement. It also led to a wave of riots and protests across the country, as many people felt that peaceful protest had failed to achieve real change. This further radicalized some members of the movement and led to a more confrontational approach to activism.
The Civil Rights Movement in the United States became more radical between 1965 and 1968 due to a combination of factors, including political victories, violent backlash, the emergence of new movements, opposition to the Vietnam War, and the assassination of key leaders.