Here are the key outcomes of the Selma marches:
* Passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965: The marches, especially the brutal "Bloody Sunday" attack on marchers by state troopers, brought national attention to the issue of voter suppression in the South. This public outcry and pressure from civil rights leaders led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act, which outlawed discriminatory voting practices and significantly increased voter registration among African Americans.
* Increased national awareness of racial injustice: The marches and the violence against them shocked the nation and helped galvanize support for the civil rights movement. They put a spotlight on the ongoing struggle for racial equality and brought the issue to the forefront of national consciousness.
* Empowerment of African Americans: Despite the violence and challenges, the Selma marches provided a powerful symbol of the fight for civil rights and inspired African Americans to become more actively involved in the struggle for equality.
* Transformation of American society: The Voting Rights Act and the momentum gained from the Selma marches helped usher in a period of significant change in American society, leading to greater racial equality and opportunities for African Americans.
In summary: The Selma marches were a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. They brought about the passage of the Voting Rights Act, increased national awareness of racial injustice, empowered African Americans, and ultimately helped transform American society.