The Supreme Court ruled in a landmark decision that struck down the Civil Rights Act of 1875, declaring that Congress lacked the authority to prohibit racial discrimination by private individuals or entities. The ruling, known as The Civil Rights Cases, marked a significant shift in federal power over civil rights enforcement, leaving protections against private discrimination largely unaddressed. Legal scholars and historians continue to debate its lasting impact on the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and the scope of equal protection under the law. The decision remains a pivotal moment in the evolution of constitutional law regarding race and public accommodations.
10/15/1883: The Civil Rights Cases are decided. The post Today in Supreme Court History: October 15, 1883 appeared first on Reason Magazine.
