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Government Responses to Social Movements

Susan Lewis

Susan Lewis

7 min read

Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers social movements and government responses, focusing on the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for gender equality. Key terms include activism, repression, and equal protection. It explores the dynamic between movements and policy change, highlighting legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965. Practice questions and exam tips are included.

AP US Government: Social Movements & Government Response - The Night Before 🚨

Hey! Let's get you prepped for the exam. This guide is designed to be your ultimate resource for understanding social movements and how the government reacts to them. Let's make sure you're not just memorizing, but truly understanding the material. Let's go!

🚀 Introduction to Social Movements

Social movements are basically organized groups pushing for change—whether that's social, political, or economic. Think of them as the engine of progress, but sometimes that engine faces roadblocks from the government. Here's the deal:

  • What are they? Organized efforts to create change.
  • Why do they happen? Usually, because a group feels unheard or unfairly treated.
  • Government Response: Varies wildly—from ignoring to embracing, and sometimes even suppressing.
Key Concept

Understanding the dynamic between social movements and government response is crucial for the AP exam. It often involves a push-and-pull, with each side influencing the other.

🎯 Key Terms: Your Quick Reference

  • Social movements: Organized groups pushing for change.
  • Equal protection: Everyone gets treated the same under the law.
  • Civil rights: Legal rights that protect from discrimination.
  • Activism: Taking action to create change.
  • Repression: Government using force to stop dissent.
  • Police brutality: Excessive force by law enforcement.
  • Demonstration: Public gathering to protest or support a cause.
  • March: Organized walk for a cause.
  • Rally: Gathering for a cause, often with speeches.
  • Counter-protest: Protest against another protest.

🤔 Key Questions: What to Think About

  • What sparks social movements? What are their goals?
  • How does the government react to these movements?
  • How do these movements challenge the status quo?
  • How does "equal protection" impact marginalized groups?
  • How does the government ensure equal protection?
  • How does police brutality affect social movements?
  • What roles do demonstrations and marches play?
  • How do counter-protests impact public discourse?
  • What's the historical context of these movemen...

Question 1 of 10

What is the core purpose of a social movement? 🤔

To maintain the status quo

To create organized change

To support the government policies

To encourage political stability