After the abolition of slavery, Whites still sought ways to feel superior to Blacks. Out of this grew Jim Crow laws and the evolution of "separate but equal." This manner of doing things went on for about 50 years, until Blacks in America realized we had plenty of separate, but not enough equal.

As a citizenry born of the Civil War, having progressed in 50 short years at a rate almost equal that of a child in its first two years of life, Blacks realized they were due the full rights, privileges and responsibilities of American citizenship. We also knew, being so close to the experience of slavery and in the throws of "separate and as little of equal saw e can get away with," that our elevation to full participation in this society would not be conceded without struggle.

Thus, the civil rights movement was born.

This action was more than a series of activities and events. In retrospect, it was the embodiment of the spirit of a people, the creation of an era where regard for civil and human rights was forced over the white sheets of hatred that covered so much of America.

This week we look at the leaders that moved to the forefront during the civil rights movements and at some crucial events taking place because of their influence. The various fronts on which the war for civil rights was fought, provided an opportunity for a variety of people t display vision, leadership and courage.