Historically, Americans have demonstrated struggle and innovation to get to where they are today. America has faced many issues ranging from slavery to the Tuskegee Study to the industrial age and the beginning of labor unions. However, on an individual level, Americans have not always been entitled to equal rights. Such equal rights should be afforded to every individual living in America. Fortunately, over time, movements emerged that were successful in guaranteeing individuals their civil rights. These movements include: the labor, civil rights, and human rights movements. Civil rights have not always been granted to everyone living in America. Before the Civil War, African Americans were brought from Africa to America and sold as property. African-Americans were then reduced to slavery by their owners. Making them work many hours a day without pay and with poor quality food. Those who did not obey their owners were then beaten and mistreated. Often slaves would run away, and then owners would put up signs and rewards for their slaves' return. Indecencies towards slaves led Americans to demand civil rights for African-Americans. However, it was not until the end of the Civil War that the 14th Amendment was passed, abolishing slavery, and African Americans gained certain rights as a result. The 14th Amendment states that all individuals born or naturalized in the United States shall not be deprived of life, liberty, or property, or denied equal protection of the laws (14th Amendment n.d.). When the industrial age began to flourish in the United States, people migrated from other countries in search of a better life. Therefore, enthusiastic immigrants were willing to work for low pay. Some ended up working in slaughterhouses or factories...... middle of paper ...... were also placed to defend individuals from distress/harm. All three movements seek equality and safety for all people, no matter who they are. Although it has taken century after century for civil, human, and labor rights to meet the needs of individuals, America still has a long way to go. LII / Legal Information Institute. Np, and Web. March 26, 2014. “About Us.” About the USPHS Syphilis Study. Np, and Web. March 17, 2014. “Child labor.” History.com. A&E Television Networks, and Web. March 17, 2014. “Labor movement”. History.com. A&E Television Networks, and Web. March 26. 2014. .