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Today in History: Eisenhower signs historic 1957 Civil Rights Act

9/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On September 9 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower—formerly the Supreme Allied Commander in World II—signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the first federal civil-rights law since 1875. The act created federal oversight of voting rights and signaled a renewed congressional effort to curb racial discrimination.

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Story summary

On September 9 1957, President Dwight D. Eisenhower—formerly the Supreme Allied Commander in World II—signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the first federal civil-rights law since 1875. The act created federal oversight of voting rights and signaled a renewed congressional effort to curb racial discrimination.