What significant act added religion and origin as protected classes?

The Fair Housing Act is the significant legislation that specifically added religion and national origin as protected classes in the context of housing discrimination. Enacted in 1968 as part of the broader civil rights movement, the Fair Housing Act aims to eliminate discriminatory practices in housing based on these characteristics among others, such as race, color, sex, familial status, and disability. This act ensures that individuals cannot be denied housing opportunities based on their religious beliefs or the country they originated from, fostering equality and inclusion in the housing market.

In contrast, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 primarily addresses discrimination in employment and public accommodations, and while it does touch upon various protected classes, it does not focus specifically on housing. The Americans with Disabilities Act is geared towards ensuring rights for individuals with disabilities, and the Civil Rights Act of 1866 was focused on racial equality but does not encompass the more modern protections related to religion and origin. The Fair Housing Act is thereby central to the protection of these classes within the realm of real estate and housing.