The Civil Rights Act of 1875 was a piece of legislation passed by the U.S. Congress on March 1, 1875. This landmark act aimed to protect the civil rights of African Americans and other racial minorities in the United States. The act prohibited discrimination in public accommodations such as hotels, theaters, restaurants, and public transportation. It also ensured equal access to jury service and prohibited exclusion from serving on juries based on race.

The Civil Rights Act of 1875 was intended to provide equal treatment under the law for all citizens, regardless of their race or color. However, the act faced significant challenges and was largely ineffective in practice. The Supreme Court's decision in the 1883 case of Civil Rights Cases declared the act unconstitutional, stating that the 14th Amendment only applied to state actions, not the actions of private individuals or businesses.

Despite its limited impact and eventual overturning, the Civil Rights Act of 1875 was an important early attempt at addressing racial inequality and discrimination in the United States. It laid the groundwork for future civil rights legislation and activism that would eventually lead to more significant advancements in the fight for racial equality.