What did the Civil Rights Act of 1866 primarily guarantee?

The Civil Rights Act of 1866 primarily guaranteed equal rights for all citizens in regards to property ownership and the right to contract. This was a pivotal piece of legislation claiming that all citizens, regardless of their race, had the right to make and enforce contracts, which included the purchase, sale, and lease of property.

The focus on equal housing opportunities is a critical aspect because it highlights the effort to combat the systemic discrimination that individuals of color faced when trying to acquire property. The Act was designed to protect the rights of African Americans, promoting their ability to own property on the same terms as white citizens.

The other options refer to important issues but are not directly addressed by the Civil Rights Act of 1866. While employment discrimination protections and women's rights in property ownership are critical topics, they relate to different legislative efforts at other times. Additionally, tax benefits for minorities is not a concept established by this specific Act. The core emphasis of the 1866 Civil Rights Act is indeed centered around guarantees of equal opportunities related to housing and property, making it a foundational piece of civil rights legislation in the United States.