Social Movements
High School
Definition
Large, organized efforts by groups of people to bring about or resist social and political change, such as civil rights, environmental, or labour movements. They use collective action to influence public opinion and policy.
Worked examples
The U.S. Civil Rights Movement (1950s–1960s) used boycotts, marches, and sit-ins to end racial segregation and secure voting rights.
Organized collective action by African Americans and allies changed laws and public opinion through nonviolent protest.
The global climate movement mobilizes students, scientists, and activists to pressure governments and corporations to reduce carbon emissions.
A modern social movement using strikes, protests, and advocacy to influence environmental policy worldwide.
Common mistakes
- A social movement is just a protest or a single event. → A social movement is a sustained, organized effort over time with shared goals and collective action. One protest is an action within a movement; the movement itself requires ongoing coordination and participation.
- All social movements succeed in achieving their goals. → Social movements vary widely in outcomes; some achieve reform, others face resistance or fail. Success depends on many factors including resources, opposition, public support, and political context.
- Social movements are only about politics, not social or cultural change. → Social movements target social, cultural, economic, and political change. Many movements seek to shift public attitudes, cultural norms, or economic practices, not just laws.
Where you'll use it next
You'll analyze social movements when studying civil rights, labor history, feminism, environmentalism, and modern activism. Understanding them helps you examine how societies change and how citizens organize to influence democracy and policy.
See also
Reviewed by Pat Cheng, M.Ed. — StudyPug Curriculum Lead · Last updated June 6, 2026