The Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) was founded in 1942 in Chicago by a group of activists, including James Farmer, George Houser, James L. Farmer Jr., and Bernice Fisher. CORE was one of the leading civil rights organizations during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.

CORE was committed to nonviolent direct action as a means to end racial segregation and discrimination. One of the organization's most notable campaigns was the Freedom Rides in 1961, where integrated groups of activists rode buses through the South to challenge segregation in interstate transportation.

CORE played a significant role in organizing protests, sit-ins, and voter registration drives, working alongside other civil rights organizations such as the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. The organization also focused on economic justice and fought for fair employment practices.

CORE's activism and dedication to nonviolent protest were instrumental in bringing about social and legislative changes that helped to dismantle segregation and advance the cause of civil rights in America.