Blackface

Minstrel PosterBillyVanWare edit

1923 “FLIT” ad - Seuss-cartoon-racist (cropped)

Dreadnought hoax larger photo (cropped)

John McCullough as Othello

Man in blackface as minstrel LCCN2001703945 (cropped).

Blackface is a form of theatrical makeup used predominantly by non-black performers to represent a caricature of a black person. The practice gained popularity during the 19th century, particularly in the United States, where it became a staple of minstrel shows. These performances were characterized by stereotypes that portrayed black people as dim-witted, lazy, buffoonish, superstitious, and happy-go-lucky. Blackface contributed significantly to the proliferation of racial stereotypes that have had long-lasting effects on societal attitudes towards African Americans.

History

The origins of blackface can be traced back to minstrel shows in the early 19th century in the United States. These shows featured white performers who darkened their skin with burnt cork or shoe polish and exaggerated their lips, wearing tattered clothing to mimic and mock enslaved Africans on Southern plantations. The practice was not limited to the U.S.; it was also found in other countries, reflecting local racial stereotypes and prejudices.

One of the most famous blackface characters was "Jim Crow," portrayed by Thomas Dartmouth "Daddy" Rice. The character's name later became synonymous with the laws and customs that enforced racial segregation in the Southern United States, known as the Jim Crow laws.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, blackface minstrelsy had become a popular form of entertainment among white audiences in both the United States and abroad, contributing to the spread of racial stereotypes.

Impact and Legacy

The legacy of blackface is one of racism and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes against black people. These stereotypes have contributed to systemic racism and discrimination that persists in various forms today. The practice of blackface has been widely condemned as racist and offensive, reflecting an era of ignorance and bigotry.

In recent years, there has been increased awareness and criticism of the use of blackface, with calls for individuals and institutions to acknowledge its racist history and to cease its use in any form. Despite this, instances of blackface still occur, often sparking public outrage and debate about racism and cultural sensitivity.

Contemporary Views

Contemporary views on blackface are overwhelmingly negative, with many people recognizing it as a racist practice that caricatures and dehumanizes black people. Educational institutions, media companies, and public figures have faced backlash for instances of blackface, leading to apologies and discussions about racism and cultural appropriation.

See Also

• Minstrel show
• Racism
• Cultural appropriation
• Stereotypes of African Americans

Blackface Resources
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