Atlanta Civil Rights Movement & History Timeline

Historic Events

Dating back to the days of Terminus, Atlanta has always been a center for change and prosperity. In the face of adversity, our radical city has been home to two centuries worth of remarkable leaders. From rarely-mentioned catalysts such as Mary Coombs to the globally recognized efforts of Dr. Martin Luther King and his renowned activists, you too can experience the Atlanta Civil Rights Legacy first-hand.

The later years of Reconstruction introduced the African-American voice to the New South with the abolition of slavery and Booker T. Washington's famous "Atlanta Compromise" speech.

During the early twentieth century, African-American citizens began working together for a progressive future, establishing multi-million dollar companies, daily observational newspapers, and institutions of higher learning.

The mid-twentieth century saw sweeping success in equality, due in great part to the Civil Rights movement and its illustrious leaders.

Today, through hard work and fearless leadership, Atlanta, once the cultural catalyst for the Civil Rights movement, is now one of the nation's iconic cities for progress and equality.

For more information, visit our Additional Resources page!

Martin Luther King GPS Tour

‘International Civil Rights Walk of Fame

Auburn Avenue Audio Tour