Which federal law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin?

The correct answer is the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which is a landmark piece of legislation that specifically addresses and prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This law was a crucial development in the civil rights movement, as it provided a comprehensive framework for combating discrimination in various aspects of public life, including employment.

The Civil Rights Act creates protections for individuals working in various sectors by making it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants on the aforementioned bases. This includes discriminatory hiring practices, promotion disparities, and unequal treatment in wages or job responsibilities.

The significance of the act lies in its foundational role in defining and enforcing civil rights in the workplace, making it a key reference point for understanding employment discrimination laws in the United States.