Which of the following groups is specifically protected from discrimination by the Civil Rights Act of 1968?

The Civil Rights Act of 1968, also known as the Fair Housing Act, specifically aims to prevent discrimination in housing based on several protected classes. One of these classes is national origin, which refers to discrimination against people based on their birthplace, ancestry, culture, or language. This means that individuals cannot be treated unfairly in housing transactions based on their national origin, ensuring equal access to housing for all people irrespective of their background.

While the other groups mentioned in the choices—investment groups, single parents, and marital status—may face various forms of discrimination, they are not included as specifically protected classes under the Fair Housing Act. The Act focuses on categories such as race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, and national origin, with national origin being a key component for protecting individuals against discriminatory practices in housing.