What was the primary focus of the NAACP when it was founded?

The NAACP, or National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, was established in 1909 with a strong commitment to fighting for civil rights and against racial discrimination experienced by African Americans. This focus was a direct response to the pervasive racism and systemic injustices faced by Black individuals in the United States, particularly during a time when Jim Crow laws enforced racial segregation in many areas of life.

The founders of the NAACP believed that legal action and advocacy were essential to securing equal rights and protections under the law. The organization initially concentrated on the legal system, challenging discriminatory practices and policies through court cases, public campaigns, and lobbying efforts. This focus on civil rights laid the groundwork for future movements aimed at achieving racial equality.

Additionally, during its early years, the NAACP played a pivotal role in campaigns against lynching, advocating for anti-lynching legislation, which further emphasized its dedication to protecting African Americans from racial violence and injustice. The breadth of the organization's mission expanded over time to address various issues, but the core emphasis on fighting for civil rights and against racial discrimination has remained central to its identity and goals.