AFRICAN-AMERICAN
SOCIAL ISSUES, POLITICS
& PHILOSOPHY

The Role of Extended Families in Black Culture : 5 page essay exploring the role of the extended fami ly in Black families. Anecdotes as well as formal research studies are reported. The importance of the extended family which includes blood-related and nonblood-related persons cannot be overestimated for the African-American family particularly in helping the youth deal with prejudice. Bibliography lists 5 references. Blackfam.wps

African - Americans in American Politics : A comprehensive, analytical 20 page discussion of the role that African-Americans have played in U.S. sociopolitics. Concepts such as Black nationalism (among others) and multiculturalism are explored. Bibliography lists at least 15 sources. Afropoli.wps

An Africana Philosophy ? : A 5 page, comprehensive essay discussing whether or not it is possible to have a unified "Africana philosophy" in a world where African-Americans have been so greatly dispersed. No Bibliography. Afrophil.wps

African-Americans & Irish Americans/Views : A 15 page research paper on the reasons why African-Americans and Irish-Americans each have different, opposing views of Affirmative Action in the United States. The writer finds that their different backgrounds in this country (i.e. slavery vs. immigration) are the apparent reasons. Paper is pro-affirmative action -- Bibliography lists 12 comprehensive sources. Afroiris.wps

Affirmative Action & Multiculturalism In Canada : 14 pages on multiculturalism and affirmative action in Canada. The writer describes how Canada has just barely begun to recognize the falseness of her perceived racial harmonies and examines the inherent problems that exist with regard to racial assimilation in Canada. Bibliography lists 11 sources. Affircan.wps (*See Law & Legal Systems for more affirmative action papers*).

Affirmative Action : A 5 page paper that provides an overview of the issues regarding Affirmative Action as presented by two different authors, liberal economist Barbara Bergmann ("In Defense of Affirmative Action") and conservative historian Thomas Sowell ("Civil Rights: Rhetoric or Reality"). This paper demonstrates the complexity of the issues related to the Affirmative Action debate. No additional sources cited. Affbook.wps

Affirmative Action / Do We Really Need It ? : A 16 page exploration of three decades of Affirmative Action policies. Includes the pro's and con's of Affirmative Action and an examination of current public sentiment towards these policies. Bibliography lists several sources. Afact.wps

Affirmative Action # 3 : This 4 page paper argues against affirmative action programs, with particular reference to 1996 legislation that sparked recent controversy. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Afact2.wps

Racial Discrimination in the Workplace / Do We Still Need Affirmative Action ? : A 9 page research paper examining the continued need for Affirmative Action policies instituted in the 1960’s. Some authors state that American minorities still need Affirmative Action’s protection; some state that we have moved beyond the quota system and that Affirmative Action has outlived its usefulness; and at least one maintains that the quota system was illegal from the outset and was never supposed to have been an issue. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Workplac.wps

Reverse Discrimination / A Black Perspective : An 8 page overview of the effects of Affirmative Action and the resulting phenomena of reverse discrimination. Concludes that although reverse discrimination does sometimes occur, it alone is not reason to abolish Affirmative Action policies. Bibliography lists ten sources. Revdisc.wps

African-Americans & Racism : A 10 page paper that demonstrates the processes that have led to an increase in institutional racism rather than a decrease. The writer suggests that the decline of Affirmative Action over the past few years has led to increased support for racial inequities and demonstrated the lack of equality in housing, employment and educational opportunities for many Blacks. Bilbiography lists 8 sources. Racism.wps

Educational Imperatives For African American Boys In Elementary Education : A 25 page research paper that examines the way in which changes in arrest rates and crime statistics for African American youth has affected perceptions about boys from this ethnic group which are then generalized in the classroom to low status positions, low expectations for academic success, and lack of access to opportunities to achieve educationally. The paper shows how these issues have been addressed both in the educational research literature and in interventions in the classroom, and makes the point that there are, in fact, effective solutions which are not being discussed or addressed as part of the national public debate on education. Bibliography lists 52 sources. Educaf.wps

The Need For Male Black Teachers In Elementary Schools : A 5 page essay discussing the need for Black male teachers at the elementary school level. Teaching does not seem to be a career choice of the African-American population; currently only 8% of the entire teaching force is African-American. But Black children need Black teachers, especially male teachers as role models. Bibliography lists 8 sources. Blakteac.wps

Social and Political Justice For Blacks In America : A 4 page research paper on black Americans and their search for political and social justice. The writer details the history of blacks in America and the progress made. Bibliography lists 3 sources. Justice.wps

The Concept Of A Middle Class Black America : A 5 page paper exploring the differences in middle class standards. The writer examines white middle-America as compared to the black middle class, and shows the latter's progression. Bibliography lists 7 sources. Blkmddl.wps

(The) Black Panthers : 8 pages about the Black Panther party of the 1960's and 70's. Discusses their role, their purpose, and the government's "plot" to exterminate them. Bibliography lists 8 sources. Blackpan.wps

Barriers Faced by African-Americans In Professional Sports Management : This 15 page paper looks at the barriers that have Blacks have faced and continue to face in working in management roles in professional sports. Bibliography lists 10 sources. Acoach.wps

Black Studies in America : A 10 page research paper on the content and implications of Black studies programs and departments in American colleges & universities. It is posited that schools in the south fail to recognize the importance of the discipline whereas schools elsewhere often lack a defined goal. Beginning with examples from the West Coast, the writer details their development, strengths and weaknesses while offering suggestions for improvement. Bibliography lists 11 sources. Blacstud.wps

Minority Internships : A 10 page paper that demonstrates the importance of minority internships in directing career choices for minority students. Bibliography lists 8 sources. Intern.wps

Creating a Black Nation : A 6 page paper that purveys how Black Africans looked at their history of domination realized that this excluded them from participating in commerce. But the larger picture was one of diversity. Members of their community are spread around the planet, and this prevented them from forming a strong Black community. Leaders knew that if they did not change history, that the global community would continue to exclude and dominate them. Therefore, they began reclaiming their rightful place by achieving freedom from British rule in Africa, restructuring their communities in Africa, and by including Blacks from around the world in their reconstruction under the umbrella of "Pan-Atlantic" and "Pan-American" movements. Bibliography lists 11 sources. Afronat.wps

Pan-Africanism/Afrocentric Education : 4 pages in length. Written from a slightly metaphysical perspective, this essay discusses the importance of Pan-Africanism and Afrocentric education. No Bibliography. Afroamer.wps

Schizophrenia / Diagnosis Based On Race ? : The effect of race on the diagnosis of this disorder is discussed in this 10 page paper. It is asserted that while there exists no biological basis for such, African-Americans are more frequently [mis]-diagnosed as being schizophrenic. Bibliography lists10 sources. Schizophr.wps

Civil Rights in the United States : Brief 4 page overview of the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Covers relevant politics and law-making from 1870 to the present. Bibliography lists 3 sources. Civilrig.wps *For More Papers on the Civil Rights era, be sure to check out our HISTORY (U.S.) 20th CENTURY Section !*

Central High School / Landmark Event In The Civil Rights Movement : A 15 page piece on how the efforts of the black students at Central High School helped advanced the movement. This paper covers the students' sacrifice and the effects it had in the courts and on government. Bibliography lists 7 sources. Desegre.wps

Blacks Crimes & The Inner-City : 7 page discussing the causal factors of high crime rates among Black adolescents in the inner-city. Also examines possibilities for change and control. Based upon three pertinent journal articles- each of which are listed in bibliography. Blakadol.wps

Black Crime and Unfair Sentencing : An 11 page research paper discussing in great detail the subject of blacks who commit crime and the sentences that they receive. Examines the disparity between white sentencing and black sentencing--makes strong arguments. Bibliography contains 8 sources. Blackcri.wps *For More Papers On This, Please Goto Our CRIMINAL JUSTICE section !

Minority Women In Criminal Justice Positions : A 9 page paper in which the writer discusses the success story of Vicki Miles-LaGrange -- an African-American woman named by Bill Clinton to serve as U.S. Attorney. Examples of several other such women are provided as well. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Wmncrimj.wps

(The) Emmet Till Trial : A 12 page research paper on the circumstances and events leading to the murder and the trial. The writer describes the story of Till, the murder and the trial that followed. This particular case was a landmark in 20th century history in which law agents attempted to cover up key elements of the torturous murder of a young Black child. Bibliography lists 10 sources. Emmettil.wps

Culture Conflict / The Ennis Cosby Murder : The Ennis Cosby murder case is discussed in this 9 page analysis where culture conflict is a predominant factor. Bibliography lists 9 sources. Ennis.wps

The Life & Death Of Ennis Cosby : The murder of Ennis Cosby as it relates to his father, Bill, is discussed in this 5 page essay. A Time magazine article, the only source used, is highlighted. One subject addressed are the similarities between the Cosby family and the Huxtables,the sit-com family Bill made famous. Ennis' life and death is discussed in detail, including his dedication to the cause of dyslexia. Cosby.wps

Environmental Racism & Landfills of the Inner-City : A 20 page analytical paper examining the idea that large inner-cities seem to have their sanitation landfills strategically located in and around minority neighborhoods. A discussion of relevant case law, economic rationale, and environmental concern is provided. The writer posits that elected officials must take action or be held responsible for the harmful effects that nearby garbage dumps have upon members of the African-American and Latino communities. Bibliography lists 19 sources. Garbager.wps

National Endowment for Black America : A 4 page analytical essay in which the writer argues that a National Endowment for Black America would be a private institution-the private, race-specific branch of a strategy whose public branches are race-neutral. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Affirmal.wps

The Roles of African-Americans in Society : A 5 page research paper examines the views and roles of blacks, especially males, in society. The focus of the paper is on the media, who have continually stereotyped blacks in roles which directly affect their self-esteem and sexuality. Bibliography lists several sources. Afroamec.wps

Social Structure, Race, Class, & Economics In America : A 7 page essay on socioeconomics in the United States. The writer feels that even though Black people are regarded as socially equal-- society has still managed to keep minority races as socio-economically unequal to the middle class. Race as a social construct is examined as are the demographics of each class. No Bibliography. Socioeco.wps

Portrayal of African-Americans in Film : A comprehensive, analytical 15 page paper on the evolution of African-American in films. Writer emphasizes the success of many of today’s movies such as those by Spike Lee. Bibliography lists 10 sources. blackfil.wps

Portrayal of African-Americans in Film # 2: A 6 page essay discussing how African Americans are portrayed in three semi-related films : Gone With the Wind, Glory, and Hollywood Shuffle. Written from an Afrocentric perspective. No Bibliography. Blackfi2.wps

Portrayal of African - Americans in Film # 3 : An 8 page paper describing roles that Black Americans have played in films. The writer traces the type of roles Black actors have had in this century and how those roles have changed using several films as examples. It is posited that even while Civil Rights ushered in a new age for minorities and a greatly-improved media role for Blacks, Hollywood has still, for the most part, continued to rely only upon the portrayal of stereotypes. Bibliography lists 11 sources. Afrofilm.wps

Separatism / A Legacy 1960-1990 : A 6 page paper on how the 1960s led to the separatism of the 1990s. The writer proves, through historical, socioeconomic and political perspectives that "the revolutionaries of the 1960s are still stranded on the edge of the abyss and scrambling for ways to keep their children from falling in. One or more leaders today haven’t the charisma or opportunity, due to media castration, to lead them. Leadership is coming in the form of separatism into various cultures. Just as they were then, the boomers are stuck looking for identity in separatism, and also as they were then, they are the leaders of that revolution." Bibliography lists 14 sources. 60s.wps

Minorities and Technology : A 5 page paper discussing the roles of blacks and women within technology. The writer addresses the everchanging issues of women and blacks within the workplace, and the everpresent biases that keep these groups from advancing with technology. Minortec.wps

Black Sprinters And Performance : A 15 page literature review that is developed to support the thesis that there are racially specific physiological differences between black and white sprinters that impact athlete performance. Bibliography lists 21 sources. Sprint.wps

HISTORICAL FIGURES &
THEIR WORKS

African-American Speeches : 6 pages worth of very short reaction essays to famous speeches and writings of early African-American heroes like Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, and Sojourner Truth. No outside references are cited. Aframeli.wps

Booker T. Washington's Address : 8 pages in length. Discussion of Booker T. Washington's infamous address at the Cotton States and International Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia (1895). Analyzes speech's effectiveness, organization, motives, and audience from a persuasive communication perspective. Includes relevant terminology and theories cited from 1 communications textbook listed in bibliography. Booker.wps

A Joint Interview with Booker T. Washington and Theodore Roosevelt : A 10 page "interview" with these two leaders in 1901, the year Booker T. Washington published his autobiography after 20 years of success at Tuskegee Institute, and the year during which President William McKinley was assassinated, leaving his Vice President, Theodore Roosevelt, to take office as President. The "interview" questions childhood experiences, factors contributing to their success, the importance of good character, party affiliation rationale, the role of blacks in America and the future outlook for them, and America’s future overall. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Btwr.wps

Charles Drew : A brief, 4 page biographical background paper on the famous 20th century African-American doctor, Charles Drew. The writer discusses his short career and the prejudices that he confronted..as well as Drew's important contributions to the field of medicine. Bibliography lists 3 sources. Charldre.wps

Different Approaches to Black Empowerment : A 6+ page essay comparing the approaches of W.E.B. DuBois, Dr. Martin Luther King, and Malcom X to the Civil Rights and Black Empowerment Movements. No bibliography. Blakelea.wps

Frederick Douglass and the Contextual Use of the Word "Slave" : 2 pages on the word slave and the historic context in which it was used in Frederick Douglass' narrative. Dougslav.wps

Frederick Douglass / Narrator for Compassion, Strength of Will : 4 pages in length. This paper seeks to represent the personal traits that brought Frederick Douglass to seek and eventually find freedom. These characteristics are postulated from the history provided in the Narrative as compassion, education, observation, faith in truth, and perserverance. One source cited. Freddoug.wps

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass : A 5 page examination of the writings of Frederick Douglass with emphasis on his first work Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass. No additional sources are listed. Fredd.wps

Frederick Douglass & His Crusade Against Slavery : A 5 page examination of the life and work of Frederick Douglass. Includes information regarding his most noted literary works, his activities as a speaker in the abolitionsist movement as well as information on other activities of his life which were dircted against slavery. Bibliography lists five sources. Fredcru.wps

Frederick Douglass / Unfeeling Animal or Suppressed Human Being? :A 5 page discussion of Douglass' narrative and how they can be used to disprove Alexis Tocqueville's contention that the black slave is oblivious to his state as a slave. Bibliography includes two sources. Fred.wps

Frederick Douglass / Brawn or Brain : A 5 page examination of the fight between Frederick Douglass and Mr. Covey as related in the "The Narrative of Frederick Douglass". Concludes that in reality the fight had no real bearing on Douglass’ real crusade against slavery or his determination to attain freedom. Points out that Douglass’ real impetus for freedom came from his quest for knowledge and that it was not Douglass’ brawn that allowed him to succeed in escaping the bonds of slavery but his brains. Emphasizes that Douglass was a man of refinement rather than one who would resort to violence as the primary means of accomplishing a goal. Bibliography lists 3 sources including the Narrative. Dougbb.wps

Frederick Douglass / An Interpretation Of His Famed Fight With Mr. Covey : A 5 page examination of the fight between Frederick Douglass and Mr. Covey as related in the "The Narrative of Frederick Douglass". Concludes that Douglass’ account of the fight holds no real symbolic meaning but that this account was really just one man’s reccollection of an event. No additional sources are listed. Dougcove.wps

Narrative Of The Life Of Frederick Douglass / The Fight With Mr. Covey : A 5 page examination of the fight between Frederick Douglass and Mr. Covey as related in the "The Narrative of Frederick Douglass". No additional sources are listed. Fredoug.wps

Thoreau’s "Civil Disobedience" vs. Douglass’ "Narrative Of The Life Of ...": A 5 page discussion of the two men, their backgrounds, their views of slavery and their approaches to obliterating it. Bibliography lists 3 primary sources including the books. Thordoug.wps

Ben Franklin vs. Frederick Douglass : A broadly-defined 5 page essay comparing Benjamin Franklin to Frederick Dogulass. Bibliography lists 4 sources. Frankdou.wps

Thomas Jefferson vs. Frederick Douglass : Approximately 6 pages worth of notes useful for a general comparison of Thomas Jefferson and Frederick Douglass. No Bibliographic references. Fredjeff.wps

Frederick Douglass & Yezierska / Into Freedom : A 6 page paper on the similar lives and philosophies of Anzia Yezierska, a Russian-Jewish writer who grew up on the East Side of New York City, and Frederick Douglass, the famed orator who was born a slave. Special emphasis is placed on their views on education and wealth in our society. Bibliography lists 1 source. Dougy.wps

Dr. Martin Luther King : 2 pages in length. In this short essay, the writer discusses Martin Luther King as a man of impressive moral presence. Presented are some of MLK's most significant contributions to humanity and the Civil Rights cause. Bibliography lists 4 sources. King4jen.wps

Media And The Message of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. : A 5 page paper on media's role in creating an ongoing image of leadership in the civil rights movement via Martin Luther King, Jr. The paper discusses the roles of timing, sensationalism, media restraint, and how the genre of eulogy was used to retain a desired media image--that benefitted all citizens in the fight for freedom. Bibliography lists 8 sources. Civrig.wps

"I Have a Dream" / Analysis of M.L.K.'s Infamous Speech : A 4 page analysis of Dr. Martin Luther King's infamous "I Have a Dream Speech" from a communications perspective. The write examines King's structure, organization, use of the Toulmin Format, and the persuasive content of his argument(s). No Bibliography. King142.wps

*More reports like this one are available in the Communications Section

Martin Luther King & Malcolm X : A 3 page comparison between the life and works of M.L.K. and Malcolm X in which the writer finds that King was a more historically humble and well-tempered individual but the Malcolm X's "pull no punches" message intrinsically appealed to a slightly more select audience. No Bibliography-- Paper is based on documentary film(s). Kingxfil.wps

Malcolm X / Biographical Book vs. Biographical Movie : A 10 page paper comparing The Autobiography of Malcolm X, as told to Alex Haley with the Spike Lee movie "Malcolm X," released in 1992 and based on Haley’s account of Malcolm X’s life and political activities. Malcolm X underwent a great change in his thinking during the last year of his life, the year in which Haley’s book was published (1965), but most of his political activity was public—and highly militant—long before he discovered the broader implications of the Islam to which he was so committed. As described in this paper, the movie is true to the book overall, but relies more on the negatives of racism than it does on tracing Malcolm X’s evolution. Bibliography lists 7 sources. X.wps

The Autobiography of Malcolm X: / History of Black Power : A 5 page paper that demonstrates the elements of history and sociology that are demonstrated within the text of Malcolm X's autobiography and provides an overview of the issues within his life that reflected these elements within the black power movement. No additional sources cited. MalcolmX.doc

Malcolm X / Biography : An page look at Malcolm X’s life; comparing his early and late views. The writer also highlights the Nation of Islam leader’s key accomplishments and influences. Bibliography lists 4 sources. Malcolm.rtf

The Autobiography Of Malcolm X : This 4 page paper presents a review of this book as it relates to racism and racial belief systems of the day. The author centers on major transitional points in the life of Malcolm X to show how he encountered societal and cultural racism from whites as well as within the Nation of Islam. Xbiogr.wps

Biography of Malcolm X : A short, 6 page biography of Malcolm X detailing important events in his life. Throughout much of the report, the writer's focuses upon X's activities as the Nation of Islam's leader. Bibliography lists 4 sources. Malcolmx.wps

W.E.B. DuBois : A brief, 4 page biography of DuBois' life and works. Writer views him as a role model. Bibliography lists 4 sources. Dubois.wps

W.E.B. DuBois & The Concept of Race : A 9 page, critical analysis of W.E.B. DuBois' concept of race. The writer posits that we certainly should not cease to reflect our culture at the moment we are declared American; for Americans maintain any exclusive culture without the foundation of external roots. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Duboirac.wps

W.E.B. Du Bois’s "The Souls of Black Folks" / An Analysis : A 5 page analysis of W.E.B. Du Bois's The Souls of Black Folks. The writer discusses the controversial nature of the 1913 publication, the meaning of Du Bois's message, and the audience which he addressed. Bibliography lists two sources. Souls.wps

W.E.B. DuBois’ "The Souls of Black Folk" / Double Consciousness : A 5 page paper discussing W.E.B. Du Bois’ feeling that the black American feels irrevocably conflicted in his assessment of himself as a black on the one hand and an American on the other. The paper points out this idea’s roots in the conflict between Booker T. Washington’s bland assimilationism and Du Bois’ deeper, more realistic insight. Bibliography lists 2 sources. Blackfol.wps

Religion, Maria Stewart, and the Pure Principles of Morality : A 6 page paper on Maria Stewart's speeches and their influence and theme. Her notion of morality and the coherency of her presentation is discussed. No bibliography. Stewart.wps

Alain Locke and Stephen Thompson / Views on "The Negro" : A 5 page paper on Alain Locke's look at the New Negro as compared to the Old Negro, and Stephen Thompson's assessment of the validity of these claims. No bibliography. Thomp.wps

Allexander Crummell / Ideas For A Black Future : A 5 page paper on the new ideas and new aims for blacks suggested by Crummell. His contradictory philosophy is explored. No bibliography. Crum.wps

*Need a paper on Nelson Mandela? They’re in the Africa section !

SLAVERY, RACISM &
CIVIL RIGHTS

Slavery In Colonial America : A 6 page paper on slavery in Colonial America in which the writer discusses such concepts as slave societies, slaves as an economic necessity, etc.; Sections also focus on the hardships endured by slaves including physical abuse, mental torture, and more. Social and political issues as they existed are examined in great detail and the paper concludes with words on how early U.S. political ideology began to attack slavery and plant the seeds for eventual conflict between the North and South. Bibliography lists 9 sources. Slaveryc.wps

Slavery In The New World / Work Force : A 5 page research essay that investigates the reasons Africans came to be exploited as slave labor. Researchers point to the sugar boom in the Mediterranean and then again in Brazil, labor shortages and the reliability of black slaves. Both nations owed their success to black slaves. Their success established the model of labor for a successful colony. The model was then repeated in developing colonies. Bibliography included. Slave.doc

Debates On The Abolition Of Slavery : An 8 page paper that defines the hottest event leading up to 1876 to be the debate over the abolition of slavery, not only on moral grounds, but also on the political grounds of retaining the union of states. Debate topics include writings and speeches made by Garnet, Douglass, Garrison, Grimske, Lowell and Walker. The paper concludes with comments around the Lincoln "house divided" speech, and the Lincoln-Douglas debate of Oct 15 1858. Bibliography lists more than a dozen sources. Slavec.wps

The Abolition Of Transatlantic Slave Trade : A 9 page paper that provides an overview of the systems that supported transatlantic slave trade and the considers the elements that impacted abolition and its repercussions. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Tradesla.wps

Marriages Under Slavery : This 5 page overview on wedding ceremonies held for slaves in nineteenth century America details customs such as "jumping the broom." The role of the church is also addressed. The paper ends with marriage statistics from the time period. Bibliography lists 4 sources. Slavewed.wps

Slavery In New England : A 5 page analysis of slavery in New England explores assumptions made by Piersen in Black Yankees. The destruction of black family ties in the eighteenth century is thought to have caused the failure of blacks to become integrated into the dominant culture. Bibliography lists 3 sources. Slave2.wps

American Life & The Institution Of Slavery : A 5 page examination of life in America in regard to slavery as evidenced through the autobiographies of Frederick Douglass and Benjamin Franklin. Bibliography included. Dougfran.wps

An Overview Of Slavery : A 7 page paper that explores slavery from the Revolution through emancipation. The paper explores the issue through the political processes and impassioned abolitionist statements that occurred during those years, including slave revolts, Dred Scott, compromises, a number of abolitionist statements, and the Lincoln-Douglas debates. Bibliography lists 11 sources. Slavhist.wps

Slavery / Differing Viewpoints : A 5 page overview of the issue of slavery and the differing viewpoints surrounding it during and after the Civil War. Includes an overview of the views of Abraham Lincoln, John C. Calhoun, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, and W.B. Du Bois. Bibliography lists four sources. Slavdif.wps

The Realities Of Slavery : A 5 page paper discussing stereotypes of slaves versus the realities of slave life, including methods of resistance. The writer provides an overview of various misconceptions of slave life and reasons for slave behavior as well as various forms of resistance. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Realisla.wps

Slavery / U.S. vs. Caribbean : An 8 page paper that explores the issue of whether slaves lived under "better" conditions in either of these countries. The paper shows that the conditions of the slaves was similar during the years of slavery, and discusses the current debate on the socioeconomic impacts of slavery in the two areas (U.S./British colonies). The paper posits that the difference between the two regimes is that in the United States the freed slaves have educational and economic opportunities not available in the Caribbean. The paper relies heavily on the experiences of two Black journalists in support of the argument. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Compslav.wps

Anti-Slave Movements : 11 pages discussing the anti-slave movements that existed from the late eighteenth through the mid-nineteenth centuries. Bibliography contains 11 sources. Antislav.wps

The Cause Of The Slave Rebellion Involving Nat Turner : On August 22, 1831, a band of slaves, led by lay preacher Nat Turner, entered a house in Southampton County, Virginia and killed five members of a family. This was the beginning of a slave uprising that was to become known as Nat Turner's rebellion. This 8 page paper reviews the life of Nat Turner and his role in the rebellion. Bibliography included. Slvrebel.wps

The Thirteenth Amendment / Are All Men Created Equal ? : This 10 page paper asks whether or not minorities are treated fairly in America today. The 13th amendment effectively freed the slaves and deemed every citizen equal to one another regardless of race. The writer takes the stance that the promises made have not been realized. Solutions are explored and a discussion on the appropriateness of affirmative action is also included. Bibliography lists 9 sources. 13amend.wps

The Importance Of African-Americans In 18th Century Virginia : A 3 page review of Michel Sobel's "The World They Made Together" in which the author argues that slave labor was both unfair and invaluable at the same time. Sobel primarily discusses the immense contributions that Black people made in laying a stronger foundation for the United States.-- Full citation provided for the primary source. Sobel.wps

The Emancipation Proclamation & The Black Southerner : A 14 page paper discussing the significance of Lincoln’s document freeing the slaves in the lives of those people whom it most intimately affected. It traces the historical background of the Proclamation; anti-black feeling before, during, and immediately after the Civil War; and analyzes what positive effect, if any, the Proclamation had. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Emancipa.rtf

Angela Davis : An 8 page research paper on the life of the famous activist and civil rights leader. The writer discusses her work, evolution of viewpoint, and contribution to the movement. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Angelad.wps

The Treatment of African-Americans in Pre- and Post-Civil War America : A 6 page paper briefly examining similarities and differences in how Blacks were treated in the late 1700’s and through the 19^th century. Bibliography lists 9 sources. Afrtreat.wps

M.L. King’s "Why We Can’t Wait" : 5 pages worth of notes, analysis, & information pertinent to Martin Luther King Jr.'s book Why We Can't Wait. No sources are listed. Whywait.wps

Doug McAdam's "Freedom Summer" : A 6 page overview of Doug McAdam's (1988) book entitled "Freedom Summer." Bibliography lists 4 additional (critical) sources used to support the writer's assertions. Freedsum.wps

Doug McAdam's "Freedom Summer # 2" : A 6 page analysis of Doug McAdam's "Freedom Summer." In this one, the write emphasizes how the rallies were actually the commencement of a sociopolitical insistence on Civil Rights in this country. Bibliography lists 3 additional sources. Freedom2.wps

Doug McAdam's "Freedom Summer" # 3 : A complete 4 page analytical overview of events describes by Doug McAdam's in his 1988 book entitled "Freedom Summer." Six supporting sources are cited and listed in the bibliography. Freedom3.wps

Howell Raines’ "My Soul is Rested" : A 5 page paper recounting the strategies and tactics of the Civil Rights Movement through the use of Howell Raines' book. By presenting accounts from figures like Rosa Parks and Julian Bond, this paper provides documenation of the strategies in the Montgomery bus boycott, the student sit-ins, and the widespread protests that often erupted into violence in the South of the 1950s and 1960s. No additional sources cited. Soulrest.wps

Powledge's "Free At Last" / Book Review : An analytical review of Fred Powledge's (1991) book entitled "Free at Last? The Civil Rights Movement and the People Who Made It." Essentially, this is a 4 page essay in which the writer describes how the book highlights Powledge's knowledge of firsthand accounts with both the famous and lesser-known people who contributed significantly to the success of the Civil Rights movement in this country. Freeatla.wps

Jackie Robinson & The Color Barrier : A 4 page biography/report on the life and accomplishments of Jackie Robinson-- the American baseball player known for "breaking the color barrier" and becoming the first Black player to gain widespread acceptance playing for a Major League team. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Jckrbnsn.wps

Jackie Robinson’s Enduring Legacy : An 11 paper on baseball’s first enduring black player. Robinson joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 amid a raft of controversy, but managed to pull "Dem Bums," perpetual losers into the 1947 World Series by doing things that won him the title of 1947 Rookie of the Year. Always outspoken on racial issues, he maintained his promise of 2 years’ worth of no visible reaction to the verbal abuse all involved, including him, knew he would suffer. After that, it was no holds barred while he meanwhile gathered award after award. He committed a lifetime to civil rights work, using baseball as a stage from which to speak. Bibliography lists 20 sources. Jackier.wps

Jackie Robinson’s Legacy / Review Of Tygel’s "Baseball’s Great Experiment": 5 pages in which the author discusses this particular book and how the great baseball player Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier between Black and Whites on the playing field and in society. Jrlegacy.wps

Jackie Robinson & Other Baseball Legends : This 5 page paper discusses the difficulties, adjustments, successes, and failures of Jackie Robinson, Larry Doby, Don Newcombe, Roy Campenella, and Satchel Paige. Jackier.wps

Jackie Robinson / Film vs. Book : In this 5 page paper, the writer is concerned with the historical accuracy of film & written accounts of the Jackie Robinson legend.The movie ["Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars"] is compared with the book "Baseball's Great Experiment: --Jackie Robinson and His Legacy." Bingolong.wps

Desegregation of Major League Baseball In The United States : A 10 page paper on the integration of Black athletes into major league baseball. The writer describes the evolution of the Negro Leagues and the reasons why it would have been beneficial for these leagues to remain in effect as they contributed to social bonding. It is argued that integration damaged some of the pride and cultural experience that Black athletes enjoyed in the Negro Leagues. Desegregation brought about major opposition, ridicule, shame, etc; Irony exists in the fact that Blacks were allowed to fight and die for America-- but they could not play baseball. And once they were allowed to, nobody would accept them. Bibliography lists 15 sources. Desegreg.wps

Black Leadership Since The Civil Rights Movement : A 3 page paper dealing with the history of Black Civil Rights in the U.S. Discusses the progression of Blacks into mainstream society, gives an outline of black leadership from the 1960's to present, and provides a listing of elements which are critical to black leadership. Bibliography lists 2 sources. Bleader.wps

Racism Against Women of Color / During the Feminist Movement : A 10 page paper that considers the issues of racial division in the feminist movement and also focuses on the role that women of color have played in race-based social movements. Bibliography lists 9 sources. Women.wps

College Football Coaching & Racism : An 11 page look at issues concerning racism and the football coach. Various historic studies are cited concerning such items as "racial stacking" in professional football and its relevance to the collegic sports environment. Bibliography lists approximately 18 sources. Coachrac.wps

Racism & The Burning of Baptist Churches in the South : This well-developed 4 page essay argues that the burning of Black Baptists churches in the South is a clear sign that racism & bigotry are alive and well in the United States today. Specific cases are cited as is the Ku Klux Klan's involvement in some of the fires. Blackchu.wps

Dealing with Racism and Racial Violence : A 5 paper on the problems associated with racism and the violence that stems from it. Discussed in the paper are different cultural and ethnic groups that are generally effected the most by racial violence, and what can be done about it. A brief description of what different types of racial violence can entail is also included. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Ratvio.wps

Dr. Martin Luther King & The Dilemma Of The American Negro / Then & Now : An 8 page essay exploring the conditions described in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s book, "Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?", to conditions for the African American in 1997, thirty years after the book was published. Specifically, Chapter IV is reviewed and compared to conditions of racism and opportunities in both eras. The writer offers examples and the thesis that conditions have definitely changed for the better but racism is still prevalent in the country. Two additional sources are cited. Dilemma.wps

McCarthyism and Civil Rights Movement : A 4 page essay that discusses the paradox of these two movements occurring during the same era. The beginnings of the Civil Rights movement which would emerge fully in the 1960s could find its foundations beginning in the 1950s, the same period of time that saw ultraconservative McCarthyism. The writer offers reasons why the occurrence of these two events is not as paradoxical as it seems at first glance. Mccar.wps

The Million Man March : A 7 page paper on the struggle and problems of racism. The paper talks Specifically about The Million Man March and even more specifically about what Paul Robeson, Jr had to say about it in his published work the "Million Man March: Wrong Message, Wrong Messenger." Bibliography included. Millman.wps

Plight Of The Assimilated Slave : This subject is explored in a 5 page analysis that looks at Mullin's thesis as contained in Gerald W. Mullin’s "Flight and Rebellion" and its application to other slave cultures. Three similar works are considered in evaluation of Mullin's view including books by William D. Piersen and David Walker. Bibliography lists 4 sources. Slave1.wps

Argument For African-American Reparation : A 6 page research paper that discusses the need for and advantages of making reparations to African Americans for 250 years of slavery. The writer presents both the ongoing economic disadvantages caused by this inheritance, and that this was resolved in other reparation cases. The writer also provides brief viewpoints of Black leaders and President Clinton on what should be done and what is being done to resolve this issue. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Repar.wps

Film Analysis / "Sankosa" -- What It Means To Today's African-American : Written from an Afro-centric perspective, this 4 page essay discusses the film "Sankosa" and its emotional impact on the modern-day Black-American attempting to reconcile feelings about slavery. No Bibliography. Sankosa.wps

Film Analysis / "Sankosa" -- The Importance Of Remembering : A 4 page essay on the importance of a film like "Sankosa" -- to ensure that African-Americans never forget their roots. Slavery is described as a problem that could conceivably re-occur if history fails to adequately re-tell its horrific tales. In the writer's opinion, Sankosa is most likely a chillingly real account-- worthy of anyone's attention. Sankosa2.wps

AFRICAN-AMERICANS
& THE ARTS

African-American Art & Apartheid : A 5 page paper that considers the impacts of African American art and artists on the transition from Apartheid rule and suggest that the prevellence of compassionate correlations made in American art have underscored the imperative of black artists in South Africa. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Afra.wps

Cultural Expression In African American Art : A 4 page paper on the use of art to express the African American struggles (everyday and over the centuries), successes, and the search for identity and empowerment. Two artists highlighted are: Jason Miccolo Johnson and John Biggers, noting their past and contributing contributions to the culture of African American expression. The paper also relies on quotes from literary and other Black artists to express not only the daily struggle for survival and recognition for African Americans, but the struggle of Black artists in the art world itself. Art.doc

August Wilson / Afro-American Playwright : A 9 page discussion of the contemporary black playwright August Wilson and several of his works including but not limited to : "The Piano Lesson" and "Two Trains Running." Augustwi.wps

August Wilson's "Fences" : A 4 page overview of August Wilson's play "Fences" with special consideration of the importance of Troy and the impact that this main character has on the development of themes like racial separation and struggle. This paper also looks at Troy's impact on his family and the way in which Wilson provides an insightful look into the culture and history of 1950’s black America. Fences.wps

August Wilson’s "Fences" # 2 : This 7 page paper examines how racial discrimination, African-American culture and family life were depicted during the 1950s in August Wilson's Pulitzer prize-winning play, "Fences." The paper provides an overview of the entire play, but focuses primarily upon Act I. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Fences2.wps

African-American Poetry/ Civil Rights Era : 7 pages covering the voice of struggle expressed in Black poetry of the civil rights era. Analytical focus is specifically upon the works of such greats as Langston Hughes, Nikki Giovani, and Gwendolyn Brook. Bibliography lists 7 sources, Report also includes samples of two relevant poems (no additional charge). Blackpoe.wps

Black Poetry & Literature -- A Reflection Through the Ages : A 5 page paper comparing today's black literature and poetry to poems of the days of slavery. The writer discusses contemporary authors and ways in which their works still reflect the themes and issues of the old poems & chants of slavery. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Blackpo2.wps

The Poetry of Langston Hughes : A 6 page paper on the poet Langston Hughes. The writer details his contributions to Afro-American literature and points out his common theme of speaking from a personal black perspective through examples from many key poems including "Harlem /What happens to a Dream Deferred," etc; Bibliography lists 11 sources. Hughes.wps

Langston Hughes and Gwendolyn Brooks / Poetic Visions of Reality : A 7 page piece that seeks to prove that Gwendolyn Brooks' "We Real Cool, The Pool Players. Seven at the Golden Shovel," and Langston Hughes' "A Dream Deferred" are not mere observations about life on the streets, they are poems that speak of dashed dreams. They were not penned merely to express internal or external suffering observed, but for the love of community. They were written not merely to point out desolation in the community, but to point out the necessity for self-empowerment. The poems spoke of the present, how it relates to the past and its relationship to the future. Bibliography lists 6 sources. Langwen.wps

The Plays Of Langston Hughes : A 6 page paper focusing on "Don't you want to be free?" and "Mulatto", two plays by Hughes. His theme of the black experience is examined. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Hughes2.wps

Renaissance in Harlem / Creative Essay : A 5 page creative story about a young black girl coming to New York during the Harlem Renaissance with the hope of becoming a writer. The story reflects customs and practices common during that time period and mentions figures instrumental in the Harlem Renaissance of the mid-1920s. No additional sources cited. Harlemr2.wps

Harlem Renaissance Art and the Re-Awakening : A 5 page paper in which the writer argues that literature written by Black authors during the early 1920s opened up a discourse between Black artists, militants and intellectuals that helped forge a Black American identity that served the Civil Rights and Pan American movements. One artist who helped to continually reopen this discussion and propel the newly found forms of black expression into a militant arena was Claude McKay through his work "Home to Harlem." Bibliography lists 4 sources. Harlemr.wps

MacKay's "Home to Harlem" : A 5 page argumentative essay that posits that Mackay used his artistic genius to make a cry for freedom during the Harlem Renaissance, and that his story was written as a warning to his community that the beauty that was Harlem then, may not last. He asserted that it might be in error that Black Americans were expected to live in only a small neighborhood in New York. By accepting this enslavement, they were giving up their newly won freedom. The writer argues that although his contemporaries tried to hush his voice, art seeks to be heard even by only one ear, and as such, MacKay's story did not go unheard. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Clmackay.wps

White Influences In The Harlem Renaissance : A 7 page paper which assesses the amount and type of influence that white literary movements had on the distinctive literature that arose in Harlem in the 1920s. Bibliography lists 7 sources. Whitehar.wps

History Of Gospel Music / "Move On Up a Little Higher" : This 5 page paper discusses the history of gospel music in America, from its pre-Civil War beginning to its breakthrough in the mid-1900s to its current popular status. It pays special attention to the influence of gospel music and its performers, particularly Thomas Dorsey and Mahalia Jackson, on the changes in the African American condition. Bibliography lists 5 sources. Gospelmu.wps

*The above is only but a small, representative sample...Be sure to check out all of the other art, literature, & music sections in our catalog!

MISCELLANEOUS

Michael Jordan / Cultural Hero : A 7 page discussion of how, in the context of his career, accomplishments, etc;-- basketball player Michael Jordan serves as a persuasive communicator and role model to the African-American community. Many insightful examples are offered. Bibliography lists 8 sources. Michaelj.wps

Culture & Heritage Essays : 12 pages containing three brief essays and numerous short answers about African culture and heritage. Keywords defined and discussed include : Bantus, Nilotics, Homo Africanus, Islam, Nubians, Racism, Black Nationalism, Oscar Micheaux (early Black filmmaker). Available in sections; Please call for more details. (No bibliography.) African2.wps

Cultural Heritage Essays 2 : Same as African2.wps (above); written as a series of definitions with examples. Africana.wps

*For African-American Authors & Literature, CLICK HERE !