What is the primary focus of the Civil Rights Act of 1866?

The primary focus of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 is to eliminate racial discrimination in housing. This landmark legislation was enacted in the wake of the Civil War, aiming to establish equal rights under the law for all individuals, particularly newly freed slaves. It specifically prohibits any racial discrimination in the sale or rental of property. The Act is foundational in the context of civil rights, as it sought to ensure that all citizens, regardless of race, have the same rights to own and enjoy property.

This emphasis on prohibiting discrimination in housing laid the groundwork for future housing acts, including the Fair Housing Act of 1968, further reinforcing its significance in the legal framework intended to promote equality. The historical context highlights its role as a crucial step towards civil rights and social justice in the United States.