What year marks the first major federal fair housing legislation?

The first major federal fair housing legislation was enacted in 1968, specifically with the Fair Housing Act, which was part of the Civil Rights Act of that year. This landmark legislation aimed to eliminate discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

The other years mentioned in the choices are significant in their own rights but do not mark the introduction of crucial fair housing legislation. For example, the year 1866 saw the passing of the Civil Rights Act that prohibited racial discrimination in contracts and property rights, establishing a foundation for future legislation, but it was not specifically focused on housing discrimination.

The year 1954 is noted for the Supreme Court's decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which addressed racial segregation in public schools rather than housing. Additionally, 1970 does not have a notable fair housing act associated with it. Therefore, 1968 stands as the pivotal year for federal fair housing legislation, making it the correct answer.