African American

African Americans are an ethnic group in the United States consisting of Americans with partial or total ancestry from any of the black racial groups of Africa. The term typically refers to descendants of enslaved black people who are from the United States. African Americans are the second largest racial minority in the country, following the Hispanic and Latino population.

History

The history of African Americans begins with the arrival of enslaved Africans during the early 17th century when English colonists settled in Virginia. After the American Civil War, significant changes included the Reconstruction period which sought to restore the rights of African Americans. Despite the abolition of slavery, African Americans continued to face severe discrimination and the impact of Jim Crow laws which enforced racial segregation.

The Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s, led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, was pivotal in fighting against racial inequality and segregation, leading to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Culture

African American culture has made a significant impact on American and global culture, particularly in music with genres such as jazz, blues, R&B, hip hop, and gospel music. The Harlem Renaissance was an intellectual and cultural revival of African American music, dance, art, fashion, literature, theater, and politics centered in Harlem, New York during the 1920s and 1930s.

Demographics

According to the U.S. Census, African Americans are the largest racial minority, amounting to 13.4% of the population. The largest populations are found in cities such as New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta.

Challenges

Despite progress in civil rights, many African Americans still face challenges such as higher rates of poverty, inadequate healthcare access, and disparities in education. Systemic issues such as racial profiling, police brutality, and incarceration disparities disproportionately affect the African American community.

Notable Individuals

Many African Americans have left an indelible mark on society. Notable figures include Barack Obama, the first African American president of the United States; Harriet Tubman, who played a significant role in the Underground Railroad; and Serena Williams, one of the greatest athletes in tennis.

See also

• Slavery in the United States
• African American literature
• African American music
• African American Civil Rights Movement